One of the crucial, but often overlooked ingredients for getting the most out of a training course, workshop or brainstorming session? Presence. Not just being physically present, but also mentally. Being fully grounded in the place where you are. Leaving the daily grind at the door and immersing yourself in the moment with an open mind and heart. Diving in completely.

We all know the difference between “being somewhere” and really being there. There are various techniques for achieving this feeling. From extensive openers and energisers to a simple round-the-table discussion. Fortunately, you don’t have to start an extensive meditation routine or sit in silence for an hour first. There is another way that, with a little effort, is faster and more efficient. And that process starts on the way, long before you arrive. With your commute.

The power of commute

We have become accustomed to viewing commute time as lost time. As something we must bridge as quickly and efficiently as possible. But what if that time is an opportunity? A transitional ritual between the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the tranquillity of an inspiring environment.

When we both still worked outside the home, we noticed it every time: the drive home was always an incredible moment of calm after a busy day at work. No matter which direction we came from, as soon as we left the neighbouring village, we were surrounded by beautiful, open fields, gentle slopes and breathtaking views. The last 10 to 15 minutes of the commute were pure gold.

No traffic. No phone calls. No podcasts. No mental to-do lists. Just being. Silent. Mindful. Looking at the light, the trees, the sky. Just being present – with your eyes on the road, of course 😉 – and feeling your system slow down.

Creative Wonderland as a destination

When you arrive at Creative Wonderland, you immediately feel like you are somewhere else. And that is exactly the intention.

Our garden is not just any garden. It invites you to explore. Various corners and benches are hidden among the greenery. You can walk through our own woodland, pause for a moment by the ancient willow tree by the stream or search for our girls’ favourite hiding place under the elderberry bushes.

Everything invites you to slow down. To ground yourself. To truly arrive.

Want to shift down a gear? Then find a spot in one of our hammocks, among the alders and the peacefully grazing sheep. Let yourself be lulled by the rustling reeds or take a seat on the bench by the sheep pasture. Even without words, you can feel that here, everything is allowed to stand still for a moment.

Don’t see the commute to our meeting room as wasted time, but as preparation

Instead of rushing from A to B, we invite you to re-evaluate your commute. See it as the prelude to something beautiful. A conscious transition from “doing” to “being”.

Consciously choose what you do – and especially what you don’t do – on the way. Leave your earphones at home. Leave the radio off. Observe. Breathe. Be curious. And if possible, take a detour.

Because what if arriving begins with departing?

Did you know that we even have dedicated an entire post to why Creative Wonderland is the most heavenly meeting room near Leuven? You can find it on our website.

So: do you consider your commute to be a waste of time, or do you dare to see it as a magical moment of transition? The choice – as always – is yours.

Ready to go down the 🐇 rabbit hole?

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