Excuse me, can I have the aisle seat?

I don't know about you, but I get nervous when I (or Erik) go on trips, especially flights.  The possibility of terrible things happening is slim, but I like to think of myself as that special 1 percent because I'm just that cool.  

So what to do to calm those nerves down?  Here are a few things I've learned over the several flights I've taken.

1.  Music.  Have a calming playlist of your most comforting tunes and listen to it often.  I find music to be one of the most therapeutic things I can do in situations where I feel anxious.  The second being putting a hood up and hiding from the world.

2.  Wear something that puts you at ease.  I like to look nice (recall previous post) and knowing I don't look like a train wreck helps me feel better.  I also like hoodies.  Do what is going to make you feel the best, and if it means wearing a smashing outfit while donning your old college sweatshirt, more power to you.

3.  Educate yourself.  You know that emergency planning video they show at the beginning?  I watch it.  I also study the little fold-out.  Even though I've flown a lot, it makes me feel a little more at ease to refresh my memory.

4.  Enjoy your time before the flight.  Usually Erik and I will go to a restaurant for a glass of wine, coffee or a snack, depending on what time of day it is and where we're at in the trip.  It helps to give yourself a little distraction and not spend time before getting on the flight freaking out.  Plus, it feels like a very normal thing to be doing.

5.  Plan.  I definitely pick out my seats.  And often (depending on how long and what time of day it is) I'll choose the aisle seat.  Knowing I can get up and out easily makes me feel better.  I also try to get as close to the emergency exit as I can without being in charge of getting everyone out.  I might freak out at the pressure of trying to open the door for everyone.

Have a great time with your end of summer travels, wherever they may take you!