The Why of Adventure: Why Do We Seek It?
Adventure. It’s a word that sparks excitement, curiosity, and sometimes even fear. I’ve always been curious and willing to explore since I was a child, but something shifted in my mid-30s. I think once I started cycling and began meeting other cyclists, especially women who were into such things as hiking, triathlons, camping and other outdoor activities. I became more intentional about stepping into the unknown, chasing challenges, and pushing myself beyond what felt comfortable. After my recent hang gliding experience in Rio de Janeiro, I couldn’t stop thinking: why am I—and so many of us—so drawn to adventure?
What Adventure Means to Me
Merriam-Webster defines adventure as:
- An undertaking usually involving danger and unknown risks.
- The encountering of risks.
- An exciting or remarkable experience.
To me, adventure is about daring to try something new and pushing your boundaries, breaking away from the usual routine of life. Sometimes, it’s thrilling and a little risky—like bungee jumping 100 meters off the Orlando Towers in Johannesburg. Other times, it’s less about adrenaline and more about curiosity—like hiking Mount Beacon in the Hudson Valley with a group of friends.
For me, adventure is anything that makes me feel alive and fully present in the moment. Each experience is unique, yet they all share one thing in common, the incredible feeling of accomplishment when it’s done.
A Kayaking Story: Facing Fear and Finding Joy
I remember the first time I went kayaking. The plan was to canoe with my friend Blaise, but she suggested we kayak instead. Immediately, fear set in. Thoughts were running through my mind, I didn’t know how to swim, I’d be in the kayak by myself, and this was a completely new activity for me.
But with the fear, there was also excitement, excitement to step out of my comfort zone, to try something new, and to see what kayaking was all about. And you know what? I had a ball. I enjoyed it so much that I went back to kayak three more times. If I hadn’t been willing to seek that adventure, I would have never discovered how much I enjoy it.
Why We’re Drawn to Adventure
So why do we seek it out? For me, it’s about more than just the thrill (though that’s part of it!). Here’s what keeps pulling me toward adventure:
Curiosity
I’ve always been curious about what’s out there. Whether it’s trying a new activity, exploring a new city, or just saying yes to the unknown, I love the feeling of discovery.
Growth
Every adventure teaches me something new about myself. It’s a chance to build confidence, resilience, and courage. There’s nothing like facing a fear and realizing you’re stronger than you thought.
Breaking the Routine
Life can get repetitive. Adventure shakes things up and reminds me how much joy there is in the unexpected. It’s a chance to step out of the everyday grind and into something extraordinary. I get tired of the same o’l same ol’.
Making Memories
Adventures create stories—the kind you tell over and over. Whether I’m sharing a moment with friends or meeting someone new along the way, those connections stick with me.
What I’ve Learned
Adventure isn’t just about the activity itself. It’s about what you learn about yourself in the process. Facing fears, taking risks, and embracing the unknown teaches resilience, courage, and self-discovery. Every time I step into an adventure, big or small, I feel like I come back a little stronger, a little more confident, and a little more in tune with what I’m capable of.
I feel like I can do anything after running off a cliff with a hang glider strapped to my back.
Encouraging Others to Embrace Adventure
Adventure doesn’t have to mean jumping out of a plane or kayaking solo. It’s deeply personal and can be as simple as trying a new hobby, exploring a new neighborhood, or saying yes to an opportunity you might usually turn down.
What’s important is that it stretches you. It pushes you to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. That’s where the magic happens—that’s where we grow.
So, if you’ve been hesitating to try something new, let this be your sign. Adventure is calling, and it’s waiting for you to answer. You might surprise yourself with what you discover—not just about the world, but about yourself. I hope and pray I get the chance to take many new and exciting adventures in 2025 and beyond.
Are you ready to roll with me on an adventure?