Routines and careful planning have their place in life, to be sure. But for those of us who tend to adhere a bit too closely to our lists and schedules, living our lives so rigidly can prevent us from enjoying the spice of life. It can be difficult to break free of our self-imposed guidelines, but incorporating more spontaneity into our lives can help us feel a whole new type of fulfillment.
These spur-of-the-moment decisions don’t have to be anything enormous. For example, we might try taking a different route home from work and eat at a new restaurant we find along the way. Even these small deviations from our norm can allow us to unlock exciting new possibilities.
Still, there’s a balance to be struck between spontaneity and discipline; being impulsive all the time is obviously irresponsible and can lead us into trouble. But there’s an interesting relationship between routine and surprise, as we often can’t have one without the other. If we don’t take care to have our finances in order, for instance, it may not be possible to splurge on that last-minute vacation with our friends.
For those who struggle to let go of the reins, here are 13 quotes about the virtues of spontaneity and surprise to inspire you to explore what lies beyond the boundaries of your strictures.
Don't plan it all. Let life surprise you a little.Julia Alvarez
The fun stuff comes when someone is not so strict on sticking to the script. You’re allowed the spontaneity, and great moments can happen.Jennifer Aniston
Why not seize the pleasure at once? How often is happiness destroyed by preparation, foolish preparation!Jane Austen
Whatsoever stirs the stagnant currents, setting these flowing in wholesome directions, promotes brisk spirits and productive thinking. The less of routine, the more of life.Amos Bronson Alcott
Something just flashes into your mind, so exciting, and you must out with it. If you stop to think it over you spoil it all.Lucy Maud Montgomery
Chance is always powerful. Let your hook always be cast; in the pool where you least expect it, there will be fish.Ovid
I tend to be really pragmatic, but ultimately tend to be attracted to people who pull me into more spontaneity. I've really learned that, through surrender, the best experiences of my life have happened.Amy Adams
If you want to make every day an adventure, all you have to do is prioritize adventure. It has to become more important than routine.Chris Guillebeau
In the miraculous spontaneity of the sun, there is discipline that utterly escapes you, and a knowledge beyond any that we know. And in the spontaneous playing of the bees from flower to flower, there is a discipline beyond any that you know … For true discipline, you see, is found only in spontaneity.Jane Roberts
Creativity arises out of the tension between spontaneity and limitations, the latter (like the river banks) forcing the spontaneity into the various forms which are essential to the work of art.Rollo May
Some of the most thrilling things in life are done on impulse.Syrie James
Being spontaneous is being able to respond with confidence; calmly trusting that, whatever the outcome, you will have a positive if challenging experience that will lead to greater self-awareness and success.Sylvia Clare
I'm not very good at making specific plans. Just meet me under the sky somewhere, and be alive with me.Victoria Erickson
Featured image credit: eamesBot/ Shuttestock
