Airplane?No, thanks, I’ll go on foot.
That’s what sometimes pops in my head when I think of the next trip. A transportation that panicks many of us, making us think ‘’Oh God not again, is there another way?’’ Let’s be honest, being up in the air can be a very uncomfortable situation, stressful and unpleasant. But what if you have to travel this way for business reasons or you are a true explorer yourself and you don’t want to miss any adventures out there? The choice (the reasonable one) is to get on the airplane when needed. Here are (my) 5 tips to trick yourself that you don’t have ANY problem to board on one and that this is going to be a pleasant flight.
1. THERE IS NOTHING TO WORRY ABOUT.
This is like hearing my mom consoling me from an irrational fear. Oddly, this advice to yourself is quite useful. You’re actually using mind manipulation by ‘’forcing’’ yourself to believe that everything is fine. The thing is that everything is ACTUALLY fine but who are we kidding? We have an almost panicky situation to calm here. Think of the purpose of this flight. Think of the destination and the joy it will bring you. If this is business, just look at it as it is: routine. Nothing is going to happen because millions of people fly everyday. You can now take a deep breath, relax and enjoy your flight.
2. WATCH THE QUIET PEOPLE AROUND YOU.
I find it very relaxing and helpful to observe calm passengers around me. I don’t mean it as stalking of course, but watching others being casual, eating, reading, watching a movie, can be very relaxing for a stressed person. They remind him/her that there is no need to worry for anything. Flight attendants also follow a routine and you don’t see them panick right? Follow their lead.
I know that sleeping is not easy when you’re stressed but if you are one of the lucky ones that can sleep anywhere and anytime, then don’t lose the chance for a nap. You’ll be refreshed and you won’t realise how the time has passed. Remember to bring your flight pillow.
4. CATCH UP ON YOUR FAVOURITE TV SHOW.
GoT, classic FRIENDS or anything of your taste will take your mind off for a few hours and it will entertain you. Watch while you eat, sit back and engage in a tv marathon, whatever it takes to fill this flight! Make sure that what you watch is really interesting, otherwise you’ll get distracted and you may return to your previous uneasy state.
While you’re travelling think of all the things you want to do when you reach your destination. What to see, what to visit, what to shop, what to eat. You may even plan your next trip now you that you see how well you handle the whole flight situation. Write down your thoughts, make a to-do list, and don’t forget to mention how thankful you are that you have the opportunity to travel the world.