Taking a break from the daily grind, even for a few days, can create space for unexpected insights and clarity.

Almost every year, I make a trip to Maine, the state where I was born and lived until I was 19. I usually come in the fall because, duh… the explosion of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows against Maine’s stunning natural backdrop is unbeatable. And most of the time, while I’m here, I do the same things—hanging out with family and friends, and taking mini-road trips to enjoy the gorgeous leaf-peeping.

For someone who has spent the last 22 years in the arid desert, the sight of lush grass, fiery autumn foliage, and the glint of lakes and streams feels like stepping into another world. Just being surrounded by nature, with the ocean’s rocky coastline nearby, is more than enough to entertain me.

A change of scenery is all it takes to shift our focus from the stressors and priorities of everyday life. This is especially important when we’re feeling overwhelmed or overstimulated. Stepping away offers a chance to see things differently.

After just a few days, the fog of my daily concerns lifts, and I begin to see things with startling clarity—whether it’s about work, relationships, or simply what I want out of life in the next few months. Becoming an observer of my thoughts and feelings, I can more easily notice what I’ve been prioritizing, how I’m spending my time, and what’s occupying my mind.

Pulling back from routines offers a chance to notice the motivations and concerns we usually carry so closely that we don’t even realize they might be misaligned with our true intentions. Stepping away allows us to ask: are these routines supporting my goals or standing in my way?

This fresh perspective is an opportunity to see things we might have missed or realize there’s something we can let go of—something that’s not as important as it seemed when we were in the thick of it. And sometimes, it’s just about catching our breath so that we have the energy and drive to keep moving forward.

I hope you, too, can carve out time to step back, reflect, and see your life with fresh eyes. It’s a gift we often forget to give ourselves, but when we do, it can be the beginning of a whole new chapter.