I recently came back from a self-discovery and workcation trip to Alicante. I love the January and February trips as it is a sign that the new years is up and going.
Self-discovery and workcation trip Alicante, packing away the old to leave space for the new
Each time I go I combine re-charging batteries with work. This time my friend Carin, who stayed with me, convinced me to start to get rid of items that we seldom use and are of no use to our guests. I also managed to look though all the outdoor chairs and the Gardner came to fix the garden.
It is part of a journey to fix and to make life a bit more simple for me, the people that are in charge of reception and cleaning of Villa Balea and for my guests. I did keep some of my mums Hungarian books. Just could not get rid of them .
A person studies where their heart desires
I recently found the expression “A person studies where their heart desires”on a website on spiritual and personal growth. It sounds true and I love the saying. It goes and in hand with my dream is for Villa Balea to become a place for workcation, studies away from home and for retreats for people that want to put their mind to the things that give meaning, purpose and connection.
I read less and less books and I prefer to gain knowledge by interacting with people IRL or online. In the Villa we have Apple TV and it is easy to find programs I enjoy on YouTube and other channels. I also love to listen to different podcasts and it is blissful to sit on the glazed terrace and listen to people that share their wisdom.
Learning, wellbeing and fun
Apart from having the facilities in place there are some other components needed for learning to flow. I would love for Villa Balea to be a Salon of a sort. That is a gathering of people hosted by someone. You know those places where people met to exchange ideas and talk up until the 19th century. What is needed
A Like-Minded Group in the sense that we are open to exchange ideas, learn and listen to each other. In short an environment that shares your our goals for growth and connection.
A Teacher or a guide is present. One of the persons would take on the role of guiding the group. Even the best group can lose its way. Some years ago Gunilla Jacobsson took on the role of guiding us as we followed a crop and learned more about Spanish food, pastries, stews and casserole as well as an Edible gardens.
Adapt the information available for the groups. Have the Books and other media ready. The group need to know that when in doubt, they can return to the sources.
Learning from Others and Spend each day reflecting and start to think about goals
Lots of breaks in the sun, in the garden as well as long walks, sports and hiking.
“Life is what happens while we are busy making other plans” ( John Lennon)
I learned that John Lennon once said, “Life is what happens while we are busy making other plans.” This is so true. How often do we actually pause and reflect on where we are headed?
It is often scary to take some time to reassess and ponder on what is really important in life. Seldom we get the opportunity to be brutally honest with oneself and to acknowledge dreams and aspirations is often overwhelming. Even harder is to start to take practical steps toward meaningful change. My salon and self management leadership stay in Villa Balea will focus on
Reflection & Honesty
Embrace self-awareness! As I sip your morning coffee in the crisp but gentle sun. Get together with friends and cook a lovely lunch, While relaxing or working we would try to ask ourself: What do I truly want? What has been holding me back? It is important to have time to dare to be honest or just clear our minds.
Ponder on realistic goals
The next step is setting short-term, achievable goals. Nothing boosts confidence like success, no matter how small. Whether it’s committing to a healthier lifestyle, starting a passion project, or making a significant life change, take one step at a time. For the smaller stepping stones towards a life that my heart desires is to start exercising regularly and to more often meet up with friends. In Spain I can do both!
Facing Fears & Taking Risks
Fear often holds us back more than anything else. Comfort zones are cozy, but they can also be cages. We should try to find a place or a way to challenge ourself to take a leap, even if it’s just a small one. Share your fears with someone in the group. Find support and encouragement in those around you.
Back home : Taking Action
Change what you can and let go of what you cannot control. Start making conscious choices that align with your dreams. Discipline yourself to step out of your comfort zone and try something new—maybe an early morning swim in the Mediterranean or a spontaneous creative project.
There would be bikes available for those that just need to get away. Luckily there is a bike rental in Ciudad Quesada. You can also so like Jeanette Stenquist did when she stayed with us. She took off a Sunday and spent about 9 hours walking to the dunes of Guardamar and back.
Jeanette on her stay at Villa Balea:
My stay in turned out to be the perfect blend of productivity and relaxation. My goals were simple: create content for my vlog, take long walks under the Mediterranean sun, enjoy a café con leche at a local bar terrace, read some good books, and meet fantastic, positive people. I made a Vlog for my youtube channel on my long walk to the Guardamar Beach and back ( In Swedish)
