“Worrying is like a rocking chair, it gives you something to do, but it doesn’t get you anywhere.” – Van Wilder

When we travel it’s easy to get wrapped up in all of the “What if’s” of what could go wrong on our journey.

What if we get robbed?

What if we miss our train?

What if I can’t get money out of an ATM?

People can drive themselves crazy incessantly asking themselves questions that they have no control over.

I’ve traveled with a LOT of people like this. Constantly worried and stressed out.

For example, when I lived in India there were the “bottled water drinkers”.

The people who were afraid of getting sick and never drank water at restaurants.

Ironically, these were always the people who got the most sick.

Yes, there is a line of being safe and stupid. But there’s also a line of being constantly paranoid.

Doesn’t this defeat the whole purpose of traveling? What’s the point if you’re anxious the whole time?

Maybe some people thrive off that energy. Some thrive off the energy of fear.

That isn’t my style.

My style is that if it’s not in my control, I don’t worry about it.

If I can do something to change my situation, I will look at my options and take action.

If I can’t do anything, I’ll simply wait and see what happens, because that’s all I can do.

I put the attention of my mind onto other topics. Things that might be more productive.

So the next time you’re stressed because you’re maybe late for your flight, take a breath and calm down a bit.

The next time you’re worried about getting robbed, take a breath and realize that people make bad decisions when they are anxious. Calm down and stay alert instead of anxious.

If you’re worried about what the weather will be like, take a breath and realize you have no control over the weather.

Learn to let go of the things that are beyond your control. If you can’t change it, or do anything about it, accept it.

If you are constantly worried about all the “what if’s”, you won’t notice all of the great things right under your nose. Stop worrying, start living. If you can control it, take action.

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