I can hardly believe that it has been a week since we returned from our adventure in Iceland.  I can hardly believe it, as the this trip was overwhelming in the best possible way.  In fact, it was the most affirming trip we’ve taken in all of our adventures.

You see, when we were planning our trip to Iceland for my birthday, I wanted to visit a place that would inspire me into my next year.  A trip that would give me the motivation and energy to take on those big goals I have for my 36th year.

We began our adventures with guide books and a paper map in hand, with little expectations and a general idea of where we’d be heading.  As the landscape unfolded around us, I quickly found myself understanding the appeal and general charm of Iceland. This country, with waterfalls and wild ponies, with geysers and volcanoes – is captivating at every single mile point on the road.

I found the landscape difficult to comprehend, and keep to scale, as buildings and landmarks are far and few between.  The landmarks of Iceland is the landscape itself.

And as we drove along the ribbon of the road, I began thinking of the epic history of this landscape – of this country: the home of the Vikings. And how this small, remote and distant island, was at the heart of the Viking saga.  How the mountains and streams and valleys were there a thousand years before I joined the planet, and how they will exist after I die. (Big thoughts for a road trip, don’t you think?)

As we drove, I felt empowered to feel strong and humbled at scale of it all.

Iceland gave me a beautiful sense of perspective.

Perspective to remember that my problems and anxieties are relatively small.  Perspective on how big the world is and how small my place is in this vast place.

Also, during our trip I found myself pushing myself outside of my comfort zone – getting past the Fear.  From hiking up slippery rocks at a waterfall to strolling along the rocks of a volcanic crater.  From going to a public swimming pool (requiring me to shower in front of strangers in my real birthday suit) to going down a water slide (silly fear I know, but the first time in over 25 years.)

Iceland gave me the inspiration to continue to go beyond the fear in all aspects of life and see where the adventures take me. 

And you know what I realised when we go beyond the fear? That is where the good stuff is – joy and love and adventure. When we move beyond the fear in our own mind, and we are able to go beyond, we remind ourselves of what we are made of – and we experience more.  Beyond the fear is where memories are made.

I was wonderfully inspired by all the Iceland had to offer.  I loved feeling so grounded in such big country.

Here’s to greeting this upcoming year with perspective and fearlessness!

Tell me, where is a place where you found yourself inspired  and learning a lesson or two?

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