Country Roads

How do you relax? For most people, it’s probably a combination of watching their favorite shows or spending time with friends. With school and responsibilities though, it can be difficult to find the time. One of my friends recently talked about driving as a sort of therapy on rough days. I usually avoid road trips if I can, but over the past week or so, I think I understand why this could help.

Most people have a car. Our infrastructure is built for automotive travel and little else. For this to strategy to work, you have to enter the right mindset. Some people leave late for work and try to rush a commute, other people have a lot on their plates and don’t pay attention to the road. Consider what it would be like to sit down and put all those distractions away for a while. I’m not saying don’t think when you drive, but start your travel knowing you can’t change the length of the road and the five minutes you save from speeding doesn’t compare to benefits of waking up on time.

I hope no one feels called out, but also consider the circumstances. Driving is a perfect break. When you’re on the road, you should be focused on the moment. Obviously, stress is a factor in how you drive but think of the experience more as a cruise. Have you ever gotten behind the wheel, not knowing where you’re heading, but just exploring? In towns like Ada, there is only so much you can do. Some people like to go out with friends and would rather wander than succumb to boredom. I understand people who worry about other drivers. The best part of country roads is the lack of traffic though. Roads are like life: there are twists and turns. Sometimes things get dangerous and others are calm. But the hazards, distractions, or other people should never stop you from enjoying the ride.