Sometimes we learn life lessons via experience. Sometimes we learn them from close loved ones who have our best interests at heart. And sometimes, we learn them from a world-traveling chef who has a reputation of being a little too honest at times. 

It may shock you to know that the former is what has taught me the most valuable lessons lately. During my time in quarantine, I spent a lot of time watching Anthony Bourdain’s shows Parts Unknown and No Reservations, and listening to Kitchen Confidential on audiobook. It turns out, certain life lessons became a lot clearer to me when I heard an abrasive New Yorker narrate them with a cigarette hanging out of his mouth while eating food I can’t even pronounce in far away places. I learned a lot from the late, great Bourdain, and I think those lessons should be shared.

Travel

This one is undoubtedly the most obvious. I mean, it’s what he was really all about, wasn’t he? His shows always surrounded him traveling to new places and trying their food and dabbling in their culture. While travel these days may not be as uncomplicated as it once was, travel can mean a lot of other things. For me, while I was watching episode after episode, it meant traveling out of my windowless bedroom outside to get some fresh air and take in the natural beauty of my surroundings. In my opinion, traveling does not need to include planes, trains, or automobiles. Sometimes it can be as simple as traveling out your comfort zone, or taking a walk down the block to that new restaurant you’ve been wanting to try.

Learn from others

“Find out how other people live and cook and eat,” says Bourdain. “Learn from them - wherever you go.” Being a student is arguably the best thing one can be in life, and learning goes far beyond the walls of a classroom. While Bourdain was traveling to all corners of the world, he used his time to learn from those in that country or region. Whether it was speaking with them, letting them show him around, or simply sitting down and enjoying a meal together. Being stagnant, whether that be physical or mental, is a massive disservice to yourself. Expanding your horizons and exposing yourself to new experiences can end up changing your mindset and even your life. 

Take risks

You think Bourdain would be the legend that he is if he had lived a life without risk? As corny as it may sound, you really do only live once. So, book that trip last minute. Eat that mysterious food that may or may not have just blinked back at you. Hell, even sending that text message may be enough of a risk for you. Bottom line is to just do it, even if it scares you. There’s growth in taking risks. Think of it this way: no matter the outcome, it will one day be a great story to tell. 

Sometimes, when I’m feeling stuck or like my life is kind of just in a routine, I watch an episode of one of Bourdain’s shows, or listen to him read a chapter of his book, and motivate myself to incite some much needed change. WWBD? What would Bourdain do? Most likely not sit on the couch elbow deep in a bag of popcorn re-watching an episode of Criminal Minds. My favorite Bourdain quote that always snaps me out of a sluggish mindset is, “Your body is not a temple, it’s an amusement park. Enjoy the ride.” Travel, eat new foods, take risks, learn from those around you. At the end of the day, this all comes down to just living your life and making the most of your time here on Earth. I know Bourdain did.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health or experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. You matter.