The First Few Weeks.

So maybe I got a little carried away on my last update. Routine isn't all bad. It is a good way of making sure you schedule the time to do something that you just need to do. Now, what someone means by "need" is different from individual to individual. Some may need to wake up in the morning, have a cup of joe, take a crap and eat cereal from the same bowl he's been using for the last 5 years. For this person, these tasks need to be done before he can start on being productive for that day. So rather than pointing the gun at "routine", let's shoot the balls off of monotony.

Since returning from my trip to Asia, I've been having a hard time coping with monotony. As I stated before, realizing that I was driving the same paths everyday and shopping at the same grocery store made me question what I had gotten into by coming back home. But rather than complaining over and over, I will point out what I don't like and I will figure out what I can do to make the best of the situation. So to combat this itch, I've started running.

I have to admit that I've cheated a little. But keep note, I couldn't run a mile without gagging and gasping for air before I left for my trip a year ago. However since returning, I have had the greatest success and enjoyment from running, ever. It was one of my goals to begin running again when I returned home, but I wouldn't think it would be like this. After picking up a pair of $130 shoes(I got it as a gift; best gift I've gotten in a long time) and taking them for a spin, I was amazed that I was running 2+ miles without gasping. Now, a few weeks later, I'm pushing 4 miles when I am able to budget the time. But how this is helping me with my stint with monotony is that I am able to just run and explore backroads, trails, hikes and routes that aren't on the same drive that I do everyday. I make it a point to see someplace new every time I go for a session with my New Balances.

Especially with my constant feeling towards being home, this is one of the few activities that make me feel better about myself. I feel like I am becoming better.

I urge everybody to do this. Find somewhere new, it probably isn't even that far. Explore what is around you. It will give you other ideas on how to improve your life. You'll be surprised.

Live it.