As my children have grown into adults, a shift has occurred in our family dynamics. Gone are the days when I meticulously planned our travels. Now, I find myself in a new role – that of a guest with no say in the itinerary.
Reflecting on our Past Adventures
Reminiscing about the journeys we embarked on when my kids were young fills me with nostalgia. From coast to coast in the US to exploring different corners of the world, we made cherished memories together.
The Unforgettable Trip to France
One of my proudest moments was organizing a trip to France with my three eldest children. Despite the challenges, navigating a foreign land with young ones was a rewarding experience filled with cultural immersion and unforgettable moments.
Moving Away from the Trip Planning Role
With our family expanding and everyone grown up, the responsibility of trip planning has naturally shifted. Now, I find myself in a position where I no longer take the lead in organizing our vacations.
Empowering Others to Plan
Seeing my daughter-in-law take charge and orchestrate a Christmas getaway in Vermont was a refreshing change. It allowed me to embrace being a participant rather than the planner, bringing a new dynamic to our family travels.
Embracing a New Chapter
Transitioning from the role of the primary organizer to a more passive participant has been a journey in itself. It's a phase of life where I can relish in the freedom to simply enjoy the moments without the burden of planning every detail.
Discovering Freedom in Being a Guest
Letting go of the need to control every aspect of our trips has been liberating. I now savor the ability to choose how I engage during our family adventures, whether it's joining in the activities or taking a moment for myself.
Finding Joy in the Present
While I used to be the one ensuring everyone's happiness and entertainment, I now revel in the simplicity of just being present. The newfound freedom to participate at my own pace brings a sense of peace and contentment.
Looking Forward to Shared Moments
As I embrace this change in roles, I eagerly anticipate the invitations to future family gatherings. Being able to show up and be fully present without the stress of planning is a gift I deeply appreciate.
It's a refreshing shift in perspective, allowing me to cherish the moments shared with loved ones without the weight of organizing every detail. As I navigate this new chapter, I look forward to creating more memories together, guided by the joy of simply being there.
—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: insider@insider.com (Susan Solomon Yem)
Title: Why I’ve Stepped Back from Planning Family Trips and Embraced Being a Guest
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/dont-plan-trips-family-anymore-i-just-show-up-2025-9
Published Date: Sat, 27 Sep 2025 17:52:01 +0000
Leave a Reply