Why Traveling Alone Can Be Amazing
You probably have a lot of fond memories of going on vacations with your family when you were growing up. As we get older, we often create our own families and take them on vacation. That is when you appreciate all that your parents went through to pull off the perfect holiday trip! There might be some times in your life when the opportunity to travel alone is presented. Instead of yearning to be with a group like you are used to, you should embrace this concept of traveling alone. It can actually provide a lot of valuable life lessons. Consider these:
You’ll Become More Self-Reliant
When traveling alone, you’re making all the decisions for what you want to do. You’re also 100% in charge of your luggage, packing, and finances. Nobody is going to pick up the tab or do your laundry. That is all on you when you’re traveling alone. You’re also in charge of your own safety. When put into motion, all of these factors can contribute to you being more self-reliant. That is a skill set that can be used every day.
You’ll Confront Your Emotional Baggage
The purpose of your solo travel might be to embrace an “eat, pray, love” kind of journey. Yes, you’ll be enjoying whatever fantastic destinations and attractions that you want to take in but you’ll also be spending the majority of the time alone in your own thoughts. That’s a good thing. What are some issues about yourself that you want to work on? What are the problem spots in your relationships with your friends and family? When all you have to do is think on your own issues you can find a lot of clarity coming your way. The goal then would be to return home and put that clarity into action.
You’ll Build Better People Skills
Your mission for traveling alone should include meeting new people. This doesn’t mean you have to suddenly become best friends with everyone you meet. Instead, take the time to strike up a conversation with the person you’re seated next to on the plane or are sitting next to at a café. You might discover local eatery to try or find out about a custom you never heard about. At the very least, you’ll be collecting recollections and that is the best “souvenir” you could ever bring home from a trip.
You’ll Appreciate the Planet
The world is a big, beautiful place full of people from all walks of life. Your solo trip can bring a great appreciation of the vastness of the world and the importance of connecting to the planet. This is why you should consider traveling outside of your comfort zone. Rent a room in someone’s home or stay at a hostel. Take in as much of the experience as you can and you’ll find yourself with a stronger sense of humility when it comes to your place in the world. That is something we should all strive for.
The next time you get bit by the travel bug, lean into your instincts and hit the road.
