7 eye-opening lessons from the heart of Montenegrin culture

Last year, my wife and I had the chance to spend a few months living in Montenegro, a small and beautiful country on the Adriatic coast.

You may know that Montenegro has a jaw-dropping Adriatic coastline and scenic mountain backdrops.

But it's more than just a picturesque destination.

Hidden within its cobbled streets, serene villages, and lush landscapes lies a culture steeped in the timeless art of slow living. We were immediately struck by the laid-back and unhurried pace of life in this Mediterranean paradise.

For cultural explorers, slow living advocates, and travel enthusiasts alike, Montenegrin culture offers many lessons in enjoying life, building strong connections, and staying balanced even when things get hectic.

Each lesson acts as a window into the Montenegrin way of life—one that revolves around meaningful moments over mindless haste.

Here are 7 inspiring lessons from Montenegro that’ll help you slow down, reset, and level up your life:

1. Stay close to nature

Montenegro’s beautiful landscapes make it easy for people to live close to nature. Whether it’s the peaceful shores of Lake Skadar or the dramatic peaks of Durmitor National Park, Montenegrins are always close to the natural world.

Locals get fresh produce from small, family-run farms, only fish what they need, and embrace seasonal foods. These habits not only support the planet but also feed their souls.

This connection helps create a culture that values sustainability and the environment. It also encourages a calmer, more mindful way of living since spending time in nature can be super relaxing for both the mind and body.

So, how can you make this work in your own life?

You can try to spend more time in nature:

• Go for a swim
• Take a hike or a stroll in the park or out in nature
• Or simply sit outside and enjoy the beauty around you

It’s not just great for your body—it also helps you slow down and really take in the world around you. Just think about how it could impact you and your life if you made spending time in nature a regular thing.

You can also prioritize green living:

• Shop locally
• Plant a garden
• Or reduce waste

You wonder how these things can make a difference for you?

Living mindfully with nature enriches life—which is as grounding for the earth as it is for you.

Just think about how much better you feel when you eat fresh, organic food compared to fast food. Or how fulfilled and connected you feel when you tend to your garden instead of scrolling through social media mindlessly.

Living near nature has a way of bringing out our best and helping us enjoy the beauty and simplicity of life.

2. Reflect on your tradition and history

Montenegrins have a deep appreciation for their traditions and history. You'll find ancient monasteries scattered across the mountains. Storytelling still thrives as an oral tradition. And traditional dances are proudly passed down through the generations.

Their respect for cultural heritage isn’t just about holding onto the past. It’s about staying connected to their identity, celebrating what makes them unique, and appreciating the wisdom of those who came before.

So, how can you make this work in your own life?

You can start by reflecting on your family, community, or culture:

• What traditions anchor you to your roots?
• What stories or lessons have been passed down to you?
• How can you honor and preserve them in your own life?

Connect with them more often and think back on the stories that shaped you. Doing this can give you a sense of belonging, keep you grounded, and spark some inspiration.

And you can also learn about other cultures and traditions:

• Visit local festivals or cultural events
• Explore new places and dive into their history and culture
• Or simply read and educate yourself about different ways of life (which, for example, is what Travel Content Creators aims to help with)

By doing this, you not only learn more about the world but also develop a better understanding and appreciation for your own roots. And it’s a great way to build empathy and respect for others too.

3. Build stronger connections with family and community

In Montenegro, family is everything. And households often go beyond just the nuclear family.

Whether it’s a celebration, a Sunday lunch, or a spontaneous get-together, family always comes first. Community matters too—neighbors are like family, and there’s always a spot at the table for a friend or visitor.

This commitment builds a support system based on connection and care, making life's challenges a bit easier to handle. And it also creates a strong sense of belonging and fulfillment.

So, how can you implement this in your own life?

You can start by prioritizing quality time with loved ones:

• Share meals
• Check in on loved ones
• Plan regular get-togethers or game nights
• Have meaningful conversations over a meal
• Or start small rituals that bring your friends and family closer

Life is richer when shared. It’s all about building and nurturing relationships that matter to you. And remember, family doesn't have to be just blood relations. Friends and chosen family can be just as important.

And when it comes to community, get involved:

• Join a club or organization that aligns with your interests
• Just say hi and get to know your neighbors
• Or take part in local events and activities

You never know who you'll meet and what connections you can make.

At the core of it all, building strong bonds with others is a reminder to slow down and appreciate the present moment with those we care about.

4. Enjoy the little moments and experiences

If there’s one thing Montenegro teaches, it’s how to truly savor life.

A coffee on a terrace overlooking Kotor Bay isn’t just a beverage—it’s a ritual. Market visits turn into lively chats, and even a walk through the neighborhood evolves into moments of spontaneous joy.

The slower pace inspires Montenegrins to appreciate the little things. Because they know it’s the small, quiet moments in life that leave the biggest impact.

So, how can you incorporate this into your own life?

• Put away the clock
• Practice being fully present in the current moment
• Find joy in simple activities, like baking or reading a book
• Take a moment to pause and appreciate the beauty around you
• Dedicate time to your hobbies, meals, or even idly sitting with a coffee

By slowing down and finding joy in everyday moments, we can learn to live more mindfully. Presence turns ordinary routines into extraordinary memories. And when we cultivate an appreciation for the little things, we can find more joy and fulfillment in our daily lives.

5. Keep it simple and minimal

Simplicity flows naturally throughout Montenegrin life.

Possessions are secondary to experiences. And homes reflect practicality over extravagance. This minimalist approach extends to everything—what to eat, how to dress, even how much to say—reflecting a philosophy of “enough.”

This simplicity cuts out distractions, making room for what really matters. And it’s a way of living that’s practical, sustainable and mindful.

So, how can you bring minimalism into your life?

First, evaluate what “enough” means for you:

• Is it less screen time?
• Is it fewer belongings?
• Or is it trimming a hectic schedule?

And then, take small steps towards simplifying your life. You can, for example:

• Declutter your space
• Unplug and disconnect regularly
• Practice saying “no” to things that don’t align with your values or goals

Freeing yourself from excess clears the path to contentment. And it can teach you to appreciate the little things, be more present, and live a more intentional life.

6. Stay strong and adapt to change

Montenegro’s history tells a tale of resilience.

Over centuries, its people have experienced invasions, shifting borders, and political upheavals. Yet they’ve emerged with their culture intact, navigating change with grace and strength.

For Montenegrins, resilience isn’t about avoiding tough times. It’s about staying hopeful, adapting, and sticking to their values. And it’s a valuable lesson we can all learn from.

So, how can you cultivate resilience in your own life?

You can start by embracing change and uncertainty:

• Practice being adaptable
• Surround yourself with supportive and positive people
• Focus on what you can control and let go of what you can’t
• Learn from past challenges and use them to build strength for the future
• And most importantly, believe in yourself and your ability to overcome obstacles

Life can throw curveballs. Instead of fighting change, embrace it with courage and flexibility. Every challenge you face makes you more resilient. And with resilience, you can thrive in even the toughest of circumstances.

7. Find the right balance between work and play

For Montenegrins, work is important, but it never overshadows life itself.

They’ve got a great balance figured out. Whether they’re tackling work tasks or enjoying festivals and family barbecues, they know that being productive works best when it’s paired with some good rest and relaxation. This focus on work-life balance makes sure you don’t have to give up your well-being to achieve your career goals.

So, how can you find this balance in your own life?

Here are some tips:

• Remember to take breaks during the day to recharge
• Keep work and personal time separate with clear boundaries
• Practice mindfulness to stay in the moment and manage stress
• Make time for self-care, whether it’s exercising or doing something you love

Don’t forget, taking care of yourself is just as important as getting things done. Finding the right balance means you can enjoy both without having to give up one for the other.

Experience life, Montenegrin style

Montenegro might be a small country, but its way of life has some great lessons for all of us. And these lessons aren’t just about habits—they’re about seeing things from a whole new perspective.

Bringing a sense of community, mindfulness, simplicity, resilience, and balance into our lives can make everyday experiences more meaningful and help us feel more fulfilled in the moment.

So, consider taking a page from the Montenegrins—slow down, enjoy the little things, and build a life that feels happy and fulfilling.

P.S. Have you experienced Montenegro's (or a similar) slow living philosophy up close? Join our vibrant community of mindful travelers and share your story! Together, we can discover more ways to live life at a slower pace and find joy in the present moment.