What is “Adventure,” Really?

Hello, friends! Today I want to talk about a revelation I had about something I mentioned a few weeks back: adventure.  

What is adventure? According to Merriam-Webster, it’s 

1. an undertaking usually involving danger and unknown risks;
2. an exciting or remarkable experience;
3. an enterprise involving financial risk

I want to focus on the first and second definitions. 

In reality, people lean towards the second definition. “Adventure” is written all over Pinterest boards with pretty girls looking out into the horizon of beautiful landscapes. It’s on home decor. It’s written on in Instagram captions about fun getaways with friends. When we embark on a so-called “adventure,” we’re usually thinking of something filled with fun memories and good people. And that’s what it is most of the time. People have a positive view of the word, including myself, and that’s great. 

However, I think it’s important to remember that the first definition of “adventure” is very real. We might be going on a completely planned out road trip “adventure,” and the worst that may happen is getting a flat tire or lost somewhere without service. Some adventures, though, are mysterious and you’re not sure what the results will be. I urge people to keep this is in mind so that you’re both more mentally prepared for the unknown and also less easily disappointed. An adventure that results in some sort of danger or loss could mean losing a huge sum of money, it could mean living in an unstable situation, it could mean gambling on a new job and absolutely hating it. I think it’s beneficial to always be conscious of this.

I will continue to say “adventure” with a cheerful outlook. However, when embarking on one, I will keep in mind that an adventure also correlates with the unknown. I’d rather be realistic than idealistic.

Have you ever embarked on adventured that had an outcome you weren’t expecting? Let me know in the comments below!