I’m back from Florida (and to my normal posting schedule this week). Last week was a whirlwind of new experiences for me — from driving two days down to Florida (which I highly recommend doing at least once in your life — you’ll even get to pass by the famous “South of the Border”), to exploring a new City, and finally feeling something I rarely feel when I travel…a desire to extend my stay (indefinitely?). While it’s good to get away, I’m usually excited to come home. But not this time. Have you ever been to Jacksonville? If you have, you know it is a beach lover’s and sun worshiper’s paradise!
I’ll be sharing more about my trip soon, but my time away reminded me of something that I often forget — the importance of being open-minded to new experiences. I like routine — I tend to go to the same places every summer, visit the same beaches, and head to the same events year after year. It’s easy to get complacent in the familiar, but it’s important to incorporate new adventures, which keep life interesting (and not to judge things and places before you see or try them in person). I knew little about Jacksonville before I visited last week. As a beach goer, I figured I would enjoy its proximity to the water. It’s located on the East Coast in Northern Florida, just a short drive over the border after Georgia. The one thing that struck me almost immediately was how friendly the people were and how much there was to do (I highly recommend the St. John’s Town Center, if you’re into shopping).
This trip has encouraged me to think of ways I can be more open-minded in my day-to-day life. Whether it’s a travel destination you never thought of visiting or a coffee shop that just opened that you’ve wanted to try, remember to be receptive to new excursions.
What are some ways that you practice open-mindedness in your own life?
Happy Monday, beautiful! My schedule has been a bit all over, too, since we’ve just recently moved, so I’m now starting to get settled in a bit and back into the swing of things. I’m so glad you had a great time in Jacksonville! We actually have some family down there (my hubby’s side) so I’ve visited before and had a great time, the beaches are lovely! We visited Old St. Augustine, one of the first settlements in the U.S. and it’s so rich in history, it’s like you’ve stepped back into time, so cool and I highly suggest you pay a visit the next time you’re there. I couldn’t agree more about being open minded. I tend to be more open, though I also have a side of me that tends to lend itself to being a creature of habit. One way I like to challenge myself in being more open minded is to read books frequently. They challenge my current beliefs on certain things and sometimes I end up changing my mind on those beliefs. Thanks so much for sharing, beauty, and I hope you have a great week ahead!
XO,
Jalisa
http://www.thestylecontour.com
Isn’t Jacksonville a lot of fun, Jalisa?! I really enjoyed my time there and I will definitely check out Old St. Augustine the next time I’m down that way. The one beach I had time to see was nice — so different from the rocky North Shore beaches that I am used to on Long Island. I’m glad you enjoyed the post!
Being open-minded is so important! I try to be open-minded in my daily life by trying to observe everything around me – good and bad. Sometime I just want to rush through and get what I need without seeing others and what they need. I love that you made this trip into something different. I need to try this with travel sometime soon.
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks, Kathrine! I think we all tend to rush around so much–without always embracing the process. Travel certainly opens your eyes to what’s going on around you.
Wise words! Always important to be open minded when it comes to anything 🙂 Embrace life and the new opportunities it brings.
Laura xo
http://www.shehearts.net
So true, Laura!
It really is important to be open minded to new experiences. I always try and remember that when I’m travelling to, and I’ve discovered so much doing that!
Annessa
http://www.seekingsunshine.com
Thanks, Annessa! I’ve found that being open-minded really enhances the overall experience when you travel.
Sometimes we get stuck in our little cocoon but there’s a whole big world out there for us to explore. Staying open minded and saying yes to opportunities are a greta learning experience!
XoXo,
Tamara – LoveofMode.com
That’s so true! Exploring the world can be a lot of fun–if you are willing to embrace the experience with an open mind.
An inspirational reminder of how important it is to push past that comfort zone.
Thanks, Vlad!
I was following along with your trip on Snapchat and it looks like it was such a fantastic time! I love how travel really opens your eyes to different experiences and ways of living, even if it is travel within your own country. It’s so important to approach opportunities to visit new places with an open mind and open heart. Have a great week and welcome home!
Thanks, Kasie! It was so nice to get away for a while. The weather was amazing in Florida. It’s much cooler back home now. Fall is definitely on the way!