You’ve heard the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do!”
Well, I recently lived that out—literally—on a Mediterranean cruise that departed from Rome and visited several cities and islands across Europe.
European cities are very different from most American cities. They’re dense, winding, and congested. Public transportation isn’t just an option—it’s often the best one.
Amy and I traveled with a group of American families who defaulted to taxis and Ubers for air conditioning and convenience. But those fares add up fast. Growing up in London, I’m no stranger to using buses, trams, and trains, so we opted to navigate the cities like locals. It was far more affordable—and, believe it or not, faster in many cases.
But it wasn’t always easy…
The Santorini Staircase Showdown
Santorini, Greece, was our most “adventurous” stop. To get from the port to the town above, you either:
🚠 Wait in line for a cable car that fits 36 people every 5 minutes (we’re talking 3,000 cruise passengers here), or, 🥾 Walk nearly 600 winding steps up a cliff… along with donkeys and their, ahem, trail markers.
Being one of the first off the ship, we took the cable car up. But on the way back? The line was two hours long in the hot sun! So, we walked down. Not without slipping at least once each and profusely sweating—And we still made it to the bottom about 90 minutes quicker than those who waited.
The Deeper Lesson: Choose Your Pain
Yes, public transportation meant running for trains and not having a seat at times. And those stairs were not glamorous. But in choosing the more difficult path, we gained freedom, time, money, and resilience.
👉 Some families didn’t even get off the ship at certain ports because it “sounded too hard.”
They traveled halfway around the world… to stay where it’s safe!
We all have choices like that in everyday life.
You can:
- Take the easy route now and face harder challenges later. OR
- Embrace discomfort today and be stronger for tomorrow.
While I would have also preferred the convenience of air conditioning and a seat like our friends, learning to tolerate discomfort actually enhances your appreciation for comfort.
What Challenge Are You Facing Today?
Is there a conflict you’re avoiding at work or in your relationship?
Are you tempted to take the quick exit—change jobs, ghost a friend, or avoid feedback?
That temporary relief feels good and is easy, but it stalls your growth.
Growth only happens under pressure and requires discomfort.
Just like walking down 600 steps past donkey dung… 🫏
The growth you will experience is directly tied to the amount of discomfort you’re willing to embrace.
Here’s to choosing the challenge—and coming out stronger!
Ready to Grow Through Discomfort?
🌱 Click here to discover the growth goals tied to your attachment style.
👩❤️👨 Click here to purchase the Couple’s Bundle and learn the 3-step process to navigate your conflict pattern.
We’ve made the process clear—even if the path is uphill. 😉
🙌 Thank You for Growing with Us
Thanks for being part of the How We Love community.
Keep learning, keep loving, and keep growing together.
With love and blessings,
Marc & Amy
Milan & Kay
