Every time I interview a 40-something woman for 40:20 Vision I ask them what three “gifts” would they give a 20-something if they were a “Forty-Godmother”. In essence, three things to help you get a head start on perspective and gain the confidence you need to make decisions that are right for you. No more woulda, coulda, shoulda. Today, 3 wishes from a 40-Something in Paris.
1. Enjoy every city you visit as if you know you are going back.
In your twenties there is a tendency to cram it all in and rush the experience of a city when you are travelling. You don’t know if you are going to ever be back in that place so you better do it all. But there is no reason to believe that if you love it you will come back. Slow down. Find out what you do love about it by enjoying the small things. It’s okay to sit at a café w and watch the world go by. See what is in front of you. Be present.
2. Take part in what is intrinsic to the city. When in Rome…yes do as Romans. Don’t seek out the familiar despite the comfort it may bring…seek out the unique. In the pursuit of the familiar you will miss the point.
3. Experiment with food. Especially when you travel to new cultures. This is when you set your tastes so if you can open up your palette now, you will not regret it later when you might have more intolerances to food. And you will find a deeper understanding of the culture because of it.