Getting lost can be an opportunity to see your world from a new perspective. Routines can be a great way to accomplish things but sometimes there is a need for variety to keeps things fascinating. Getting lost does not need to be in the literal sense in that you have no idea where you are. What I am referring to is about approaching your day differently. It can be as simple as taking a different walking path, driving down a new street or as involved as day tripping to a place you have never been before. The idea is that you are opening up space in your life to create new experiences without a firm plan. Plans can be valuable, they have a time and place but plans can also present comforting limitations. When we make plans we often create experiences that are familiar and that can lead to stagnation- sometimes consciously, sometimes not. Setting yourself up for unexpected experiences can give you the opportunity to appreciate the now, be present and just let life unfold*. I challenge you to find ways that you can shift your perspective, and find your own way of getting lost.
Getting lost is a technique I often use to help shift my perspective when I am feeling down or stuck in life. When I need to shake things up I tap into my traveling mindset. Usually the memory that inspires me is my visit to one of my favorite cities to get lost in, Venice, Italy. When I talk to most people they either love Venice or they hate it. Those who hate it rattle on about the high prices, crowds and heat. I learned during my last trip to Venice in September 2013, to a certain extent the haters are right. The main attractions, St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doges Palace had steady lines wrapping around their exteriors and St. Mark’s Square was filled with people, in some areas shoulder to shoulder. The soaring September mid-day temperatures and crowds sent me steering clear of all the packed alleys, streets and tourist sites. I enjoyed seeing the main attractions, they are spectacular and rich with history but what I found is that the true romance and beauty of Venice is when you simply wander the city and get lost.
No city map seems to be exact or to scale. Streets are alleys with hidden twists, turns and dead ends. It’s an open labyrinth that’s big enough to get lost in but small enough to always find your way back. And this labyrinth has endless bars and eateries offering prosecco, wine and small bites of food around every corner (called cicchetti). If you have the opportunity to visit Venice I highly recommend considering staying overnight. Wait until the crowds have receded and spend some time just wandering. Those quiet moments are when the romance, magic and uniqueness of Venice truly comes alive. Quite simply put, Venice is the perfect place to get lost.
Here are some recommendations for getting lost in Venice. Keep in mind, these can be applied in many places, so use your imagination:
Bring a map – it’s always nice to be able to find your way back when you truly have no idea where you are. I consider myself good with directions and Venice had me all turned around even with the maps I had. It can be fun getting lost but you’ll need a map to reference when you want to get back home.
Have your camera ready and/or pay attention – the beauty of Venice is more apparent than ever in the quiet alleys and waterways. Bright colors and aged walls, it’s a photographers heaven. Look for the small and interesting details that stand out to you that you may not notice if you weren’t paying close attention.
Wear comfortable shoes - I know, you are in Italy and all of the windows around you are showcasing designer heels and boots. It’s tempting to join in, but trust me if you are going to put in three to six hours of exploring this city, wear comfortable shoes. Save the uncomfortable shoes for a different night out.
Be safe – Always check with local information and guidelines on safety and security recommendations and be aware of your surroundings.
Here are a series of photos from when I have indulged in getting lost in Venice over the years:
*If the subject of being present interests you, I highly recommend exploring more from author and speaker Eckhart Tolle, starting with his book The Power of Now.
