"La vie est un voyage pas une destination"

Life isn’t about reaching some final point; it’s about the experiences you have along the way. This idea is at the heart of the quote. It’s a reminder to savor the moments, learn from the ups and downs, and enjoy the ride rather than just focusing on where you want to end up.

Think back to when this phrase might have become popular. It’s often linked to the broader philosophy of living in the moment, which gained traction in the 20th century, particularly with the rise of mindfulness and self-help movements. People, exhausted from the rat race and the never-ending chase for success, started looking for deeper meaning in their daily lives.

Imagine you’re hiking up a mountain. You’re not just trudging along with your head down, ignoring everything until you reach the peak. No, you’re pausing to look at the view, noticing the rustling of the leaves, the scent of pine in the air, maybe even the taste of that sandwich you packed. It’s these experiences that make the hike worthwhile, not just the view from the top. That’s what this quote is all about.

Let’s talk practical application. Ever found yourself caught up in a project at work, glued to your desk, eyes on the prize of a promotion or a bonus? It’s easy to do. But what if, instead, you focused on the daily tasks with a sense of curiosity and appreciation? You’d probably find more joy in your work, connect better with your colleagues, and, ironically, you might even perform better.

Here’s some advice on how to live this out. Start by setting small, daily intentions. Maybe it’s taking a moment to appreciate your morning coffee, or a few deep breaths before starting your day. It’s about those tiny shifts in perspective. When you hit a snag, instead of seeing it as a barrier to your goal, see it as a part of your journey—what can you learn from it? How does it shape your path?

Let me share a story. I remember a friend of mine, Sarah, who was obsessed with landing her dream job. She had a clear vision, and she worked tirelessly towards it. But in the process, she missed out on so much. She skipped vacations, lost touch with friends, and was constantly stressed. One day, she didn’t get the promotion she was banking on, and it felt like her world crumbled. But then she took a step back and started to pay attention to the now. She began enjoying her daily tasks, reconnecting with friends, and even took up painting again. Funny enough, as she focused on her present, she found new opportunities opening up—ones she hadn’t even seen before because she was so fixated on that one end goal.

So, next time you’re caught up in the hustle, think about the journey. Enjoy the little things. Laugh at the detours. Embrace the unexpected. Life’s not just about where you’re heading; it’s about how you get there. And sometimes, those side roads and unexpected turns make for the best stories.