In my late 20’s, I backpacked through Asia for four months. (Yes, both Asia and backpacks existed way back then.) My first stop was in Bali, Indonesia. After negotiating third world public transportation from the airport to a small inland village, I was approached by a Balinese man who said he had a guest room for rent in his home.

I asked him if the room was nice. “The room is a room,” he replied. “The nice is up to you.” I stayed at his home for five very enjoyable days.

Whenever I find myself wondering if my next project (or conversation or meal or trip) will be productive (or meaningful or enjoyable or eventful), I try to remember the words of my Balinese host: it’s up to me.