I began the path to minimalism during the Fall of 2014 and it’s one of the best things I have done for myself. So far, I have learned that minimalism isn’t just about removing materialism, but it’s also about prioritizing what is most important and it has helped define what I want out of life.

One of the things I want more of, is adventure. Adventure means more experiences, more discovery, and more fun stories to share.

Last year I was in Colorado visiting family and I decided to take a day to venture out on my own. I was curious what the area was like, so this was the perfect opportunity to check it out. Traveling alone is thrilling because it allows me to go wherever I want, do whatever I want, and enjoy some quiet time — something I don’t get much as a mom.

The drive towards Colorado Springs was beautiful. The mountains were gorgeous and it was kind of a challenge to keep my focus on the road because of all the beautiful landscape there was to see. As I was driving, I knew that something special was in store. I surrendered myself to what the day was going to unfold. This is what adventure is after all — no definite plans, just letting go.

It was late morning by the time I arrived in Colorado Springs and I was very hungry. I brought my blood sugar level back to normal, and set out to look at the city by scoping out the downtown area. After what seemed to be a few turns here and there, I found myself in a neighborhood with homes that had lots of charm and character.

I enjoyed looking at the architecture of the homes so much, that I kept driving around. I had no idea where I was going and it didn’t matter. I eventually ended up in the hills of the Pleasant Valley and realized I was lost. Instead of getting into a panic, I saw it as an opportunity for the adventure I was seeking. After a few more turns, I started to see signs for Garden of the Gods.

Garden of the Gods?! This sounded way too cool to pass up! I knew I was pulled into this direction for a reason. I wasn’t in a hurry to be anywhere, so I decided to see what this place was about. Garden of the Gods is a beautiful park with amazing rock formations. People from around the world were there and I just happened to find it with some good luck.

There were nice trails to hike on and the views were stunning. Courageous rock climbers kept hikers entertained with their uncensored vocabulary as they kept pulling their way towards the top of the rock. Getting lost and finding this park was a great find. And an extra perk is that this park has FREE admission.

The adventure in Colorado was an enjoyable experience and experiences lead to discoveries. Thanks to simple living I have found 5 things:

1. I have discovered new hobbies and found ones I used to enjoy.

Simple living makes me feel like a kid again because I’m doing more activities that I love, instead of getting stressed about things that clutter or materialism causes. My new hobbies include writing and photographing and I never imagined doing these things.

I enjoy the health benefits of being creative through these new hobbies. Everyone has a creative side, it’s a matter of finding it. Dancing, building, or writing … express yourself and you will be thankful for it.

2. I spend more time outside.

Spending more time outside has benefited my well being. There is proof that being outside is good for you in several ways. It’s great exercise, it gets the creative juices flowing, and it brings happiness.

3. Be present.

I’m not one who likes to plan too far into the future because life is about enjoying the present moment. Try not to focus too much on the past or the future because the past can’t be changed and future plans don’t always work out. Take advantage of what is happening now.

4. It’s ok to be lost.

We’re all trying to figure out life as we go along and it’s ok to be lost. This trip to Colorado, among many other life situations, has shown me that getting lost is really just a way of being redirected. Don’t give up because something amazing will come along … like Garden of the Gods did!

5. I found a better me.

Minimalism helped clear materialism from my life and it helped me find a better person underneath it all. I have learned more about myself and what I want to focus on. My family benefits from it, too. In fact, I have my husband to thank for getting me started on this journey. We have made a great team (with challenges, of course) to stay on this path of simplicity.

If you are looking to change your way of living and discover a better part of yourself like I did, try simplifying life by focusing less on material goods. Simplicity will bring you more peace, joy, and new things to discover. And what a better place this world would be if we can find happiness in a simple life.