Every person's life journey is unique. Figuring out what you need along the way can be an adventure in itself. What do you need AT THIS MOMENT in your life? What changes can you make right now so that your needs are more fully satisfied? There may be clues for you in the "Travel ? section of your Sunday newspaper. Here's what I mean.

What kinds of actual, physical travel appeal to you at this moment in your life? Do you yearn to visit distant parts of the world that you've never been to, like Hawaii, the Serengeti, or Sydney? Do you see advertisements for trips to island paradises and long to veg out on a beach with no greater responsibility than to adequately cover yourself with SPF 15? Are you attracted to seminars and retreats that allow you to grow and learn in acommunity? Perhaps you have developed a secret desire to travel to Europe alone, or to go hiking with a group. Notice what calls out to you - and by all means, if you can take the trip, go for it! Vacations are good for you, period.

But you can also use the information to help you understand what qualities you need to bring into your daily life, to nourish and support you on your life journey. For example, if you are lusting for some lazy days at the beach - you may need to build more rest and quiet time into your life. If you are hungry for a vacation that involves rigorous physical activity, you may need a more serious and rugged workout in your daily routine. Yearning for a communal learning adventure? Perhaps it's time to arrange your life so you have more expansive time with people you love being with - or more opportunity to meet them! Attracted by a discovery vacation or an art tour? What parts of YOU are ready to be discovered and expressed, and how might you open up space in your life for that to happen?

Trust yourself to know what you need. Honor yourself by satisfying that need.

(And don't forget to write! I'd love to hear from you "on the road! ?)

Coaching Tips:

Write down your answers to these questions.

1. What kinds of vacations are attracting you?
2. What qualities or experiences do you desire from these vacations?
3. How might you bring those qualities and experiences into your daily life? Come up with several possibilities.
4. Choose one of these options. What are the next steps to implement this idea?
5. Take those next steps!

COPYRIGHT 2000, Sharon Teitelbaum. All rights reserved.

Sharon Teitelbaum

Sharon Teitelbaum, a professional Work-Life and Career Coach, author and motivational speaker, specializes in coaching high achieving women with young children, people at mid-career, and professionals seeking greater career satisfaction and work-life balance. Her book, Getting Unstuck Without Coming Unglued: Restoring Work-Life Balance, was published in 2005.

In addition to coaching clients throughout the US by phone, or in person in the Boston area, Sharon also delivers keynotes, workshops, and brown bag sessions on work-life issues. She has given workshops for Children?s Hospital Boston, SunLife Financial, Arnold Worldwide, Coldwell Banker, the Forum for Women Leaders of Non-Profits, and many parent and alumni groups. She has been featured in several national publications including The New York Times, The Chicago Tribune, and Working Mother Magazine.

She has been married for 30 years and is the mother of two amazing young women.