Today I am sharing an article from Christine Kane with you. I travel a lot and her tips speak to me.
Much of a business traveler’s time is spent reacting.
“Annoying Thing A” happens. “Business Traveler B” decides what to do.
Some days are a constant impetus/response pattern. Some of us get good at it. Some of us pride ourselves on our inner peace in spite of Annoying Things A, B and C. But even if we learn how to react well, we’re still reacting!
That’s why your choice of how to use your non-reacting time is a key to unwavering happiness. You must practice proactivity when you can.
Being proactive (or CREATIVE) renews your relationship to your own power. It makes you happier. So, here are 10 Proactive (or CREATIVE) tips for the business traveler seeking unwavering happiness…
Tip #1 – Simple Self-Care
No, I won’t tell you to go to a spa in your spare time.
However, I will tell you to sleep when you’re tired. To pull off at the next exit when you have to pee instead of making yourself hold it. To allow extra time to get places.
Travel takes energy. And when people don’t practice self-care in healthy ways, they reach for it in unhealthy ways. They eat hub-cap-sized plates of pasta and grease, claiming they “deserve it.” They drink alcohol. They watch TV to numb out.
This isn’t self-care. This is self-medicating. One is pro-active. The other is reactive.
Tip #2 – Discover Audiobooks
Many years ago, I decided to turn my vehicle into a “school.” I started listening to books on business, coaching, and spirituality. Not only do I learn a lot, but it makes a huge difference in how I show up to my destination.
Tip #3 – Use Intention
Before any new segment of travel (getting on a plane, going to sleep) set an intention for your travel. You’ll be surprised how your intention determines your outcomes.
Tip #4 – Make Mantra
Create a simple affirmation. Say it often. Say it when you’re waiting in line. Say it when the plane gets delayed. Use it to center yourself. Challenge yourself to say it a thousand times in one day.
Tip #5 – Board the Plane Last
When the gate agent calls the Zones, let everyone else trip over each other so they can then stand in the hot jet way punching their cell phones.
Give peace a chance. Wait until the final boarding call. Plus, if there’s an empty row, you can switch your seat because you know you’re the last one on!
Tip #6 – Work out
Nothing maintains your mood like a great heart-thumpin’ work-out! Wake up a little earlier, or find the hotel gym after you check into your room. This practice will make all the difference in how well you apply these other tips!
Tip #7 – Get Help
I used to lug around two guitars, a suitcase, and my computer bag. I’d pride myself on my strength and stamina.
Now, I pride myself on swiping my credit card through the cart vending machines next to baggage claim! I’m not into struggle anymore.
Get help, and tip people well. The extra $50 you might spend costs less than a visit to the chiropractor when you get home!
Tip #8 – Wash off your travel
If I have the opportunity, I always take a shower after I fly. I call it “washing off the travel.” If nothing else, at least shower before you climb into bed. Try not to sleep with your travel still on you.
Tip #9 – Forgive unexpected expenses
You rush to the airport in your rental car after the conference. There’s no time to fill the tank. You end up paying $45 for a teaspoon of gas at the Hertz desk. Argh!
Travel expenses like this can make you crazy. You can spend the day beating yourself up or criticizing the world for its unfair policies.
Don’t waste your precious creative energy!
Travel is filled with lots of unexpected expenses. Your money will get spent because of A) stupid things you did, B) unforeseen situations, or C) the fine print. Do yourself a big favor. Breathe and let it go because A) you’re traveling, B) you’re wealthy, and C) you’re worth it.
Tip #10 – Think Ritual
A business trip is not the time to start a new diet or yoga practice.
You can, however, keep small daily rituals. Write in your gratitude journal, even if you feel lonely or tired. Wake up 15 minutes early and remind yourself of your intentions for the day. Before you rush to your laptop and begin reacting, take time to create the day.
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Performer, songwriter, and creativity consultant Christine Kane publishes her ‘LiveCreative’ weekly ezine with more than 4,000 subscribers. If you want to be the artist of your life and create authentic and lasting success, you can sign up for a FRE*E subscription to LiveCreative at www.christinekane.com.
WANT TO SEE HUNDREDS MORE ARTICLES LIKE THIS ONE?
See Christine’s blog – Be Creative. Be Conscious. Be Courageous – at ChristineKane.com/blog.