My Walk on El Camino de Santiago: Recognize What is Missing

The number of people who walk the Camino annually is growing. There are more than 200,000 certificates of completion handed out each year. Historically pilgrims made the walk to Santiago de Compostela for religious reasons. Today, there are other reasons that people travel to make this walk; to reconnect with nature, to escape and distance themselves from digital influences, to test themselves physically, or to reflect and find more purpose in life.

I think most people make this journey to discover or re-discover something that is missing in their lives. It was marvelous for me to spend time with myself. I find that God can speak to me when I am silent and letting my thoughts flow freely. I can find answers to problems.

Falling out of touch with yourself often happens when you follow what you think you should be doing rather than what you want to be doing.  Ask yourself questions. What will lead me to happiness? What is my real passion? What brings me pleasure? What am I missing?

Finding what is missing is figuring out who you are and where you can go, but you don’t have to travel as far as I did to do this. Take a walk somewhere beautiful. Meditate. Talk to a friend who knows you well. Write in a journal. Do more of what you love and get out of your comfort zone.

Nothing that brings you joy is a waste of time. Finding what is missing and leaning into the things that excite you is a big step toward getting what you want.