You’re stuck in a rut and NIN’s Every Day Is Exactly The Same seems quite applicable. We’ve all been there – frustrated and letting far too much negativity interfere with our lives. Fortunately, the solution might easier than you think and really, really fun. It’s actually something your parents used to drag you along for and made your home feel really strange to be in again after a week or two. Yep, travel.

I’m not telling you something you don’t already know when I insist that travel helps our bodies and minds recharge. Immersing ourselves in a new place, trying new foods and talking to people from entirely different upbringings is a beautiful way to work our neural connections and passageways. That’s why some of the most creative and interesting people out there make it a priority. How else are you supposed to start thinking differently unless you have different experiences?

Others rarely leave their comfort zone (for the outside world is scary, dangerous and unpredictable) and see none of the benefits. Still others walk a middle ground, recognizing travel’s value, but letting excuses and obstacles get in their way. I know that all too well. But if the obstacle is money or time off, the best advice I can give is the same approach I like with savings in general.

Set up a travel savings account and automatic transfer each month of a little more than you’re comfortable with. If you run into some extra cash from rewards cards, loose change or odd jobs – just bank it. You can probably get along without it, even if it means getting flirty with the bartenders tonight. It’ll all depend on your commitment, but you may be able to reward yourself with a trip sooner than you think. And it will be so awesome when that happens.

In the meantime there is an easy fix that can help out a bunch. Take a day and just go somewhere you’ve never been before. It doesn’t have to be far. Hiking, photowalking a neighborhood you’ve never set foot, or thrift shopping podunk towns all can relieve hungry eyes. It’s not as glamorous as backpacking Europe or exploring ancient South American ruins, but it’ll give your eyes something new to look at. Try it and let us know it goes.

Ready to take action? Be sure to check out:
Automating Your Personal Finances – Personal finance tips from Ramit Sethi
Photowalk List – Find a photowalk near you
Couchsurfing and Tripping – Connecting travelers with locals
wejetset – Modern travel store for those with discriminating tastes

Need more reminders? View the whole How To Be Creative series here.