"Il vaut mieux bien voyager que d'arriver."

The main idea here is that the journey or the process can be more valuable and fulfilling than the actual destination or the end goal. It's about appreciating the experiences and lessons you gain along the way rather than just focusing on the final result.

Historically, this idea can be linked to Buddhist philosophy, which emphasizes mindfulness and being present in the moment. The quote suggests that when we are too fixated on our goals, we often miss out on the rich tapestry of experiences that come with the journey.

Let's bring this to life with a real-world example. Think about hiking up a mountain. If you're solely focused on reaching the peak, you might rush past breathtaking views, ignore the chirping of birds, or miss the scent of wildflowers along the trail. But if you immerse yourself in the hike, appreciating each step, the journey itself becomes rewarding. By the time you reach the top, it's not just the view that takes your breath away—it's everything you've experienced to get there.

So how can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start by setting goals, sure, but don't become so fixated on them that you overlook the present. Whether it's a project at work, learning a new skill, or even planning a trip, give yourself permission to enjoy each step of the process. Celebrate small victories. Learn from setbacks. Engage fully with whatever you're doing, rather than constantly looking ahead to the finish line.

Imagine this scenario: You're working on a big project at work. It's stressful, the deadline looms, and you can't wait to be done with it. But instead of just grinding through, try to find moments of joy and learning. Maybe you discover a new software trick that makes your job easier, or you have a breakthrough idea during a brainstorming session. Perhaps you form a stronger bond with a colleague as you work late nights together. These experiences enrich your professional life and make the project more meaningful.

In another scenario, let's say you're learning to play the guitar. If your goal is to become a rockstar, you might get frustrated with every mistake and slow progress. But if you enjoy each practice session, savor the joy of playing a new chord, and laugh at your fumbles, you'll find the process rewarding. You’ll likely stick with it longer and improve more naturally.

And remember, life isn't just about the big moments—graduations, promotions, or awards. It's about the coffee breaks with friends, the late-night study sessions, and the little victories that add up over time. The more we focus on the 'travel' part of our journey, the richer our lives become.

So next time you set a goal, think about how you can travel well. Embrace the journey, with all its ups and downs. You'll find that when you finally arrive, the destination will be that much sweeter because of everything you've experienced along the way.