I’ve been thinking a lot recently about what it means to be a travel blogger. While some are lucky enough to have a huge following that has earned them a lifetime of constant travel, there are more that have to balance an obsession with exploring the world against a 9 to 5 job (or some other “real world” obligation).

I am someone whose life aligns with the latter situation. And although sometimes my day job takes priority, it is so important that I always remember my dreams and what ultimately drives me.

Here a few things I do in my everyday life to foster my love of travel. I bet they will be helpful to you too:

Constantly remind yourself of your passion for exploration

Display souvenirs and photos from past travels around your apartment. Hang up a map of the world or put a globe on a side table. Make a travel bucket list and hang it where you can see it.

Surround yourself with items that remind you and encourage you to pursue your passion.

Never stop learning

This is a core principle of travel that can be applied to your everyday life. The more time you spend learning about the world and all that it has to offer, the more you will want to get out and see it. Besides, you want to be educated about where you’ll be next, right?

Follow your favorite bloggers and read their travel guides, subscribe to travel magazines and read travel news publications. My favorite publications are Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Afar and Departures. Their pictures are always stunning and their editorial pieces are incredibly educational & inspirational.

See your surroundings with a fresh pair of eyes…

…like you would when visiting a new destination. Think about when you travel to a new place. You want to try all the traditional food, see all of the new sights and talk to all of the unfamiliar people. Bring this curiosity into your daily life.

Check out that restaurant down the street that just opened. Start a conversation with somebody new. Venture to that small park and take pictures of the trees against the sky. Never become bored of the city you live in (or the towns nearby). This will make you an innately more curious, open and exploratory person and in turn, make you a better traveler. It will also prevent you from becoming jaded and dulled to your surroundings.

Make connections

Talk to new people in-person and over social media who have the same interests as you. This might result in a newfound travel buddy, a new place to stay abroad or a new friendship. It never hurts to connect with others and there is no such thing as too many friends.

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