Ok…I’m going to keep it real and get vulnerable here…because people rarely share these type of things, and I think it’s good to look beyond the photos you see. I’ve been in an emotional rut over the past few months…searching for something/someone to invigorate me…I felt lonely and desperate to “figure it out”. I am guilty, as most are, of comparing my life to that of others…imagining how much happier I’d be if I was able to find my special partner, or make more money or look like a supermodel. As a good friend helped me realize, this is a trap…and will only lead to anxiety. You’re also never truly seeing the full scope of the struggles people face. So after getting an unreal price alert, I decided to impulsively take a brief solo trip to 2 places I’ve never been (Iceland and Netherlands). I wanted to go alone, without anyone else’s expectations to influence my experience. Travel is my biggest passion in life, and nothing energizes me quite like stepping off the plane in a new city. I had just over 4 full days, and I made zero plans…I was just going to let life happen and give up control. I have to say, I never could have expected to connect with so many wonderful people that made me laugh, dance and truly feel the beauty of human connection. More importantly, I fell in love with myself again. Not in a narcissistic way, as some might perceive…but in a self compassionate way. I’m so hard on myself sometimes, and I realized that I am much stronger than I give myself credit for. This weekend I felt brave, kind, open, adventurous, funny, attractive, curious and empowered. I needed that reminder…that happiness is a state of being. It’s not something that can be bought or chased. So take a moment to reconnect with yourself, and rather than judge people…have some compassion for yourself and others. We’re all just trying to figure it out…❤️ Thank you @rechede for this photo. Your talent and worldly perspective were inspiring!