Zen and Bikes: Ran Zilca's Journey, Transformation, and Felicity
In his late 30s, many individuals find themselves in a transitional phase, grappling with high demands and the absence of a clear next step. This period, often referred to as midlife transition, represents an opportunity for self-discovery and change. Running a startup and leading a family in Westchester County, New York, Ran Zilca found himself yearning for a shift, a nudge outside his comfort zone.
One fateful day at work, while filling out a questionnaire promising to assess his goals, Zilca unexpectedly scribbled down, "ride a motorcycle from coast to coast." To his astonishment, this goal ranked at the top. With a newfound determination, Zilca embarked on a transformative journey.
Although he had no prior experience, Zilca was committed to obtaining his motorcycle license. After failing his initial test, he managed to pass the retest and soon developed a passion for two-wheeled travel. Motorcycling, he discovered, served as a form of meditation—a tranquil escape that allowed him to be fully present and engrossed in the moment. He harnessed these experiences to navigate his daily life, acquiring a heightened sense of flow and serenity that continued to persist even after he stepped off his bike.
Driven by his restlessness and the desire to introduce change into his life, Zilca embarked on a two-year-long adventure across the United States. During this trip, he encountered a multitude of individuals who, like him, were pursuing their dreams. The conversations that ensued not only enlightened Zilca but also provided an invaluable insight into the human psyche: many dreams are attainable, and the barriers to achieving them are often self-imposed.
Zilca's life-changing journey led him to connect with prominent figures in the positive psychology field, from Deepak Chopra to Barbara Fredrickson. Through these encounters, he understood that happiness originates from serving others and fostering empathy. Empathy, in turn, can transform the way we perceive the world, making us more compassionate and connected.
Returning home to his suburban life, Zilca grappled with maintaining his newly acquired perspective. Cooking, nurturing a family pet, and mundane tasks such as washing dishes all began to hold new meaning for him, and he learned to find joy in the everyday. Four years after his cross-country adventure, Zilca continues to uphold the principles he acquired during his journey, encouraging others to embrace change and step out of their comfort zones.
The essence of happiness, according to Zilca, is to be present and fully engaged in the moment, regardless of whether it involves an exhilarating road trip or the simple act of washing dishes. Embrace change, he urges, and trust that it will lead you toward a newfound perspective and a more fulfilling life.
Zilca's interactions with prominent figures in positive psychology, such as Deepak Chopra and Barbara Fredrickson, reinforced the idea that mental health is deeply connected to our ability to find happiness through serving others and fostering empathy.
Incorporating these principles into his daily life, Zilca found that even simple tasks, like cooking or washing dishes, could contribute to his overall well-being and mental health.
Motivated by his personal growth, Zilca participates in various advocacy activities, promoting mental wellness and emphasizing the importance of embracing change for personal happiness and growth.
