It’s well known that the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. But is that always the best path?
If we’re pressed for time and need to make a journey quickly then, yes, the most direct route is probably the better idea. But, if you have time and opportunity, why not follow a different path? Same destination but different way of getting there. A change of scenery, alternative landscapes or city views. Different buildings, unfamiliar trees and fields. It is said that ‘a change is as good as a rest’ and just varying the route a little can offer you a different perspective.
That different perspective can provide real refreshment. Taking a different path might be just the boost we need – not only in literal journeys but in some of the more tedious aspects of life. If we get stuck in a routine that might be the time to do things in a different order. Juggle the chores, walk round the supermarket aisles in a different order or make changes to the route you take from one part of the office to another (and if you can add in a flight of stairs you’ll be getting some extra exercise!)
There’s usually something interesting to see and experience if you adjust one simple thing or routine at a time. It doesn’t have to be dramatic – a simple tweak can be all it takes to give us a different ‘take’ on everyday journeys.
As the writer TS Eliot said:
‘We shall not cease from exploration. And the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.’
Quite an exciting thought…