I travel a lot. Anyone who spends their time as a road warrior can tell you stories about the misadventures of trying to get from point A to point B. I have visited hundreds of different cities and towns in the 27 years I have been speaking to groups. When I get lost, I have a choice between looking at the situation as a problem or an opportunity. Sure, it can be aggravating to search for a location when I’m 30 minutes from being on the platform in front of 200 people. But most of the time, I have enough of a buffer so this is not a worry.
As much as I have a good sense of direction, I have still ended up with little idea of where I was. I’ve learned over time, however, that stressing over the situation does little resolve the problem. So I start chanting to myself, “I love an adventure. I love an adventure.” This little mantra helps me keep it all in perspective. Once I’ve calmed down, I start looking around for resources. I’ve met some fascinating people and seen some fascinating places while lost.
Inevitably, I see a familiar landmark, get the right advice, or simply happen onto a familiar road. Have I lost a bit of time? Sure. But what is time anyway if you never get lost and discover fascinating distractions and people. After all, life is not meant to be lived as one never-ending progression of meetings, conversations, and paperwork. Don’t worry if you get lost. Just start chanting my favorite mantra and look for the next interesting turn in the road.