Michaela Trimble
What is your everyday magic?
Simply waking up every day is magic in itself. In my job as a freelance travel writer, I usually wake up in many different destinations within a month's time. No matter where I am or what I'm doing, I give myself at least 30 minutes for a self-care ritual. It kick-starts my day in the best way possible!
What strategy and tactics to you utilize to live your best life?
I often battle with the lack of balance in my life. I'm constantly traveling, always on the road, and I find this can throw off my rhythm if I'm not careful. An essential tool for my well-being is to continuously focus on the positives. Do I get lonely on the road? Sure. Do I miss my family and loved ones? Of course. But do I adore my job and this opportunity I've been given? Definitely! To equalize this, my mother and I have a ritual. Each evening, we text each other three things we're thankful for in our day. It may sound silly and small, but this makes me look for the positives of my day. It really helps elevate the thoughts I let in my brain!
What are your top 3 tips for success?
I'm usually on the road most of the year, and I have a tried-and-true formula that keeps me in balance no matter where life takes me. I begin my day with a music meditation using the Dreamcatcher playlist on Spotify; the songs are by acclaimed Native American artists who perform flute music. It's totally ethereal, and it connects me with the Earth and my own basis of spirituality. I find this very easy to incorporate into my day, as I let the music play in the background while I'm flowing through my morning routine. I travel with a small pack of essential oils. I pick and choose scents and make morning combinations based on my mood. This self-care act feels luxurious and serves as a moment of nourishment. Finally, I try to get some form of exercise every day. Most of my trips and stories tend to be active in nature, so this is quite easy for me, but even on my off days, I try to get my heart rate up. It makes me an all-around happier, more balanced person.
What one book (or movie) do you want to give everyone you know because you believe it has the power to change lives?
Whether within my personal life or my career, I find it easy to get caught up in the day-to-day minutia of life. I try to read Don Miguel Ruiz's Four Agreements at least every year; it helps me take a step back and find perspective in difficult situations. It's like hitting a life reset button. Based on ancient Toltec wisdom, the four agreements include: be impeccable with your word; don't take anything personally; don't make assumptions; always do your best. When I incorporate his practices, it helps me eliminate self-limiting beliefs that can rob me of everyday magic!
About Michaela
Michaela is a contributor for Vogue, Travel + Leisure, GQ, Men's Journal, National Geographic, Robb Report, AFAR, Conde Nast Traveller UK, Hemispheres, American Way, Rhapsody, Outside, and more. Based in South Florida, she's a South America expert who travels the world to report on inspiring, impactful adventures. In addition to travel writing and photography, she consults with brands to build their content strategy through digital and creative direction. She has been to all seven continents, and my passion to explore the world knows no end.