It is not that we have a short time to live, but that we waste a lot of it. Life is long enough, and a sufficiently generous amount has been given to us for the highest achievements if it were all well invested.
Author Conor Bowman once said, “We’re all gonna die someday, and in between being born and then, you only have one f***ing life. If you spend more time being happy with what you’ve got than you do being unhappy about things you don’t have, then you’ve cracked the secret.” For many of us, finding that balance remains elusive. However, in the video featured in this article, Riley and Elayna from Sailing La Vagabonde offer a compelling argument for seeking out a life you truly love. They challenge us to reflect on a vital question: “Are you in love with your life?” If your answer is uncertain, their insights and experiences might just provide the guidance you need.
In their YouTube episode titled, “The VIDEO that’ll make you want to sell your house,” Riley and Elayna from Sailing La Vagabonde offers convincing arguments for embracing adventure and living life with purpose. As Riley and Elayna navigate the stunning waters of the Bahamas, they share profound insights and practical wisdom that resonate deeply with those viewers seeking to change the direction of their lives. Drawing from a eye opening article titled “Your Life in Weeks” by Tim Urban, from the website Wait but Why, Riley and Elayna highlight the finite nature of life and the need to cherish every moment. Their suggestion is that if you’re not in love with your life, something needs to change, and perhaps you should buy a boat.
As idyllic as it sounds to sell everything and buy a boat, there are many factors to consider. Not everyone can simply sell their house and buy a boat. Is owning a boat truly the key to happiness? And what if you don’t even like boats—does that mean you’re destined for unhappiness? Fear not, even if living on a boat isn’t an option or desire for you. There is plenty of advice that applies to everyone, from couch dwellers and part-time adventurers to those ready for a major life change. Let’s uncover their secrets.
Acknowledge your mortality
Riley and Elayna’s decision to abandon conventional lifestyles and pursue a vagabond existence is rooted in a profound realization: life is fleeting. This epiphany, shared by many who have embarked on alternative lifestyles, has also motivated fellow Sailing YouTubers like Sailing Nahoa and SV Delos to actively pursue their sailing odysseys. To further bolster their argument, they draw upon fascinating insights from Tim Urban and Ernest Becker, emphasizing the importance of seizing the moment and living authentically. By acknowledging their mortality, many are compelled to make bold choices that align with their passions and values.
work to live or live to work?
Practical insights abound as Elayna discusses remote work opportunities in today’s digital age. Advancements in internet coverage have revolutionized the way we are able to work, enabling individuals to pursue unconventional lifestyles while maintaining professional commitments. In the context of living on a boat full time, the couple’s ability to work remotely from their sailboat illustrates the evolving landscape of employment, inspiring viewers to explore alternative paths to fulfillment.
tips for working remotely
Here are some tips and hints for working differently, inspired by Elayna and Riley’s experiences:
1. Leverage Technology: Take advantage of advancements in internet connectivity, communication tools, and collaboration software. Platforms like Zoom, Slack, and Trello can help you stay connected and productive from anywhere in the world.
2. Explore Remote Work Opportunities: Look for jobs or freelance opportunities that allow for remote work. Many industries, such as tech, marketing, and customer service, offer roles that can be performed from virtually any location.
3. Create a Flexible Schedule: One of the benefits of remote work is the ability to create a schedule that fits your lifestyle. Prioritize your tasks and set boundaries to ensure a healthy work-life balance.
4. Invest in Portable Equipment: Ensure you have reliable and portable equipment, such as a laptop, noise-cancelling headphones, and a mobile hotspot. These tools can make working from unconventional locations more feasible.
5. Optimize Your Workspace: Whether you’re on a boat, in a van, or at home, create a dedicated workspace that minimizes distractions and maximizes productivity. Comfortable seating, good lighting, and an organized setup can make a big difference.
6. Stay Disciplined and Motivated: Remote work requires self-discipline and motivation. Set clear goals, establish routines, and find ways to stay accountable, such as through regular check-ins with colleagues or a productivity journal.
7. Network and Learn: Join online communities such as Sea People App. Networking with others who have similar lifestyles can provide support, inspiration, and valuable advice.
8. Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it’s adjusting to different time zones or dealing with technical issues, flexibility is key to thriving in a remote work environment.
9. Balance Work and Adventure: While the freedom to travel is a perk of remote work, it’s important to balance work commitments with exploration. Plan your work hours around your adventures to make the most of both worlds.
be present in the moment
Riley and Elayna advocate for slowing down and embracing mindfulness as a pathway to fulfillment. Mindfulness, the ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we are doing, has been linked to improved mental health and well-being. For Riley and Elayna, the unique benefits of mindfulness while sailing, pull them away from the monotony of suburban life. Elayna makes reference to some sailors feeling at one with their boat, possibly alluding to the experience of entering The Zone, a state where one concentrates only on the tasks at hand. On board a sailboat, every moment is immersive, as one experiences the movement of the boat and the changing environmental conditions around them. Viewers could be encouraged to create opportunities to be present, getting out of their comfort zones and doing something that captivates their concentration, cultivating a greater awareness of the present moment in their own lives.
Tips for being present in the moment
1. Get into Nature
Spending time in nature has a profound effect on our well-being. It grounds us, brings us peace, and allows us to connect with the world on a deeper level. Here are a few ways to fully immerse yourself in nature:
- Explore New Landscapes: Whether it’s a lush forest, a serene beach, or a rugged mountain trail, each environment offers unique sensory experiences that can help you feel more connected to the present.
- Practice Mindful Observation: Take the time to notice the small details around you—the rustling leaves, the chirping birds, the patterns of the clouds. Engaging your senses in this way can anchor you firmly in the moment.
- Embrace Outdoor Activities: Activities like hiking, sailing, camping, or simply walking in a park can help you appreciate the beauty of the natural world. Physical movement also helps to release stress and clear your mind.
- Disconnect from Technology: Leave your phone behind or put it on airplane mode. Allow yourself to fully engage with your surroundings without the distraction of digital devices.
2. Slow Down
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the rush of daily life. Slowing down can help you savor each moment and find joy in the present. Here are some ways to practice slowing down:
- Mindful Breathing: Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath. Inhale deeply, hold for a few seconds, and then exhale slowly. This simple practice can help calm your mind and bring your focus back to the present.
- Simplify Your Schedule: Prioritize your tasks and make room for downtime. Allowing yourself to take breaks and not overloading your schedule can reduce stress and make it easier to stay present.
- Enjoy Simple Pleasures: Take the time to enjoy the small things in life—savor a cup of coffee, relish a good meal, or take a leisurely walk. These moments of pleasure can help you feel more grounded and content.
- Practice Patience: Cultivate patience by being more deliberate in your actions. Whether it’s waiting in line, cooking a meal, or engaging in a conversation, approaching tasks with patience allows you to fully experience them.
3. Do What You Love
Engaging in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment is a powerful way to stay present. Doing what you love can make time feel more meaningful and help you connect with your passions. Here are some ways to incorporate what you love into your daily life:
- Pursue Hobbies and Interests: Make time for activities that you are passionate about, whether it’s cooking, playing an instrument, gardening, or any other hobby. These activities can bring you immense joy and help you stay focused on the present.
- Spend Time with Loved Ones: Connecting with friends and family can provide a sense of belonging and happiness. Engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and create lasting memories together.
- Set Goals and Follow Dreams: Identify your passions and set goals to pursue them. Working towards something you love can be incredibly motivating and fulfilling.
- Create Balance: Ensure that you have a balance between work and leisure. Allocate time for activities that recharge and inspire you, making it easier to stay engaged and present in all aspects of your life.
By getting into nature, slowing down, and doing what you love, you can cultivate a deeper sense of presence and find greater joy in each moment.
gaining perspective
Consider that we live in one bright second between the big bang to the end of our universe. Given the shortness of our lives, Riley and Elayna prompt us to consider how we currently experience our moments. If you are stuck in a rut, living in the monotony between work and home, positive interactions with nature by engaging the senses of hearing, touching, and smelling can change one’s experience. Elayna explains that for them, living on the water offers a unique perspective that fosters appreciation for Earth’s vastness and one’s place within it. Furthermore, sailing enables distance between the daily grind of land life, allowing them to gain clarity and prioritize what truly matters. Engaging our senses and tapping into different ways of experiencing the world opens one up to fresh ideas and viewpoints. By shifting their vantage point, they gain a newfound perspective on their lives, ultimately leading to a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Tips and Hints for Gaining Perspective
- Reflect on Life’s Bigger Picture
Contemplate the vastness of the universe and the briefness of human life. This perspective can shift your focus from daily stresses to a broader appreciation of existence.
Spend time stargazing or watching a sunrise/sunset to remind yourself of the natural cycles and your place within the larger cosmos. - Disconnect to Reconnect
Take breaks from your usual environment to gain clarity and distance from the daily grind. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer retreat, stepping away can provide a mental reset.
Use these breaks to reflect on what truly matters to you and realign your goals and priorities. - Cultivate Appreciation
Keep a gratitude journal to regularly acknowledge and appreciate the positive aspects of your life. This practice can help shift your focus from what you lack to what you have.
Engage in activities that foster a sense of wonder and awe, such as visiting natural wonders, exploring new cultures, or learning about the cosmos.
sustainability and responsibility: nurtuing the planet
La Vagabonde is renowned for its dedication to environmental stewardship, aiming to minimize its carbon footprint and embrace sustainable food practices. Living on the water offers numerous opportunities to adopt eco-friendly habits, and while their lifestyle may not be perfect, Riley and Elayna strive to inspire viewers to reflect on their impact on the planet and adopt more sustainable practices. They emphasize that while we don’t need to be vegan or achieve zero food waste, it’s crucial to spend time considering how we can improve our sustainability efforts. By demonstrating that individual choices can collectively drive positive global change, they illustrate how sustainable living can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. Through conscious actions, we can not only protect the environment but also enhance our own sense of purpose and well-being.
The power of connection
In their video, Riley and Elayna as fellow sailors why they love life out on the water. Many highlighted diverse reasons people choose this lifestyle, but emphasized the sense of camaraderie and support within the sailing community.
By fostering connections with like-minded individuals, Riley and Elayna create a network of support that enriches their lives and enhances their sense of belonging. Their experiences underscore the importance of community in navigating life’s challenges and celebrating shared passions.
loving life on land
While not everyone can sell their house to buy a boat, there are valuable insights from Sailing La Vagabonde’s video that can enrich our lives. Here are our key takeaways:
Embrace Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine through practices like meditation, nature walks, or engaging in creative activities. Cultivating awareness of the present moment can bring greater fulfillment and peace.
Find Your Adventure: Discover new experiences, hobbies, or local travel opportunities that ignite your passion and sense of exploration. Embracing adventure doesn’t always require drastic changes; it can be found in small, everyday moments.
Build Community: Foster connections with others by joining clubs, attending events, or volunteering for causes that resonate with your values. Building a strong support network can bring joy, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging.
Embrace Change: Stay open to new opportunities and be willing to adapt to life’s inevitable twists and turns. Embracing change can lead to personal growth, resilience, and a deeper appreciation for life’s journey.
Ultimately, “The VIDEO that’ll make you want to sell your house” serves as a poignant reminder that life is a grand adventure waiting to be embraced. Whether you’re navigating the open waters or exploring uncharted territories on land, the essence lies in seizing each moment with vigor. Embrace the thrill of adventure, nurture mindfulness, champion sustainability, foster meaningful connections, and welcome change with open arms. If your current path doesn’t ignite passion within you, dare to embark on a new journey. Who knows what extraordinary experiences and profound revelations await along the way?
