I’m about to do something very cool.
On Tuesday, I’m driving to a Vipassana Meditation center for a 10-day silent retreat. I’ve been trying to go on one of these retreats for three years now, and I’m stoked that it’s finally actually happening.
The reactions I’ve gotten from talking to people about it have been mixed, to put it mildly. There are about three camps:
- those who have done one themselves and are supportive
- those who want to do one and are supportive
- those who think it sounds terrible and I’m crazy
There was a time that I’d probably have been in that third group too. Being away from technology, sitting in silence all day, and eating a vegetarian diet can be challenging enough for a day in isolation — let alone doing all three for ten full days!
But I’ve gotten much more comfortable being alone over the past couple of years, and even look forward to my time alone.
A lot of people have asked me, “What do you hope you’ll get out of it?”
And truthfully, I’m not sure. I know that as much as I look forward to it, it will still be very challenging. And I don’t really know what to expect with that much time to introspect.
And that’s exactly what’s so exciting — the pure unknown. I’ve never given myself this kind of time and space to be so unplugged and fully immersed in this type of exercise. Whatever comes from it, I know I’ll be grateful for it.
I’ve worked very hard to get my ducks in a row so that I can take a full 12 days (including travel) away from technology and the rest of the world. I think it’s the perfect time of year as I look forward to 2019 and my third year in business.
I’m excited to share with you more about the experience when I get back.