INTRO
Today on the blog I have a really interesting post about travel. I don't
write about travelling solo because I'm a bit of a scaredy cat at heart and
it seems so daunting. But....I was asked if I'd be interested in
collaborating with this post and it has opened my eyes to the reasons why
taking off on a trip alone can be good for the soul.
The added bonus is that it includes five personal benefits of solo travel
that I'd never really considered before. So, if you're a solo traveller or
not, I hope you find this as interesting as I did.....
WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO TRAVEL SOLO?
When life starts to feel like a trap, it’s time to get moving. Feeling
stuck when relationships end, routines turn dull, or you feel like you’ve
lost your purpose is more than just a metaphor. Often, the best antidote
to being in a mental rut is to physically set yourself in motion.
The space you’re in has much to do with how you think about the world. When going through a mental struggle, you associate the things around you with the negative emotions that come with your problems. The more you ignore the problem, the more you’ll feel stranded in the same mental prison. Your physical world makes or breaks your healing.
To travel is an act of physical jailbreak. By changing what you see, you break the cycle of feeling down, depressed, and lonely. While it may take time to heal, the physical and mental demands of travel will force you to redirect your focus from the negative feelings toward the present experience.
Travelling reawakens your sense of surprise. It makes you snap a photo of the sweet old couple sitting on a lakeside bench on a Tuesday afternoon, appreciate the smile of the cafe attendant as she serves your breakfast, or notice the way strangers stop in their tracks to take in the view of the orange sunset.
You realize that beauty is everywhere, and it might just be in you.
Travelling to a new city or country demands that you overcome your social anxiety to ask a stranger for directions, learn a few key phrases in the local language, or make sure to pack your favourite summer chair instead of a sweater on the week of your visit.
You learn more about yourself as you adapt. This self-knowledge is ultimately the building block you’ll need to raise your confidence and self-trust.
Being alone suddenly doesn’t feel like fear but being in control.
The next time you travel solo, indulge in a little self-care. Make the experience as comfortable as possible to associate the experience with positive emotions. Even as simple as bringing a heated neck pack to make bus rides extra cozy or your comfort snacks for when you miss home.
The space you’re in has much to do with how you think about the world. When going through a mental struggle, you associate the things around you with the negative emotions that come with your problems. The more you ignore the problem, the more you’ll feel stranded in the same mental prison. Your physical world makes or breaks your healing.
To travel is an act of physical jailbreak. By changing what you see, you break the cycle of feeling down, depressed, and lonely. While it may take time to heal, the physical and mental demands of travel will force you to redirect your focus from the negative feelings toward the present experience.
TO TRAVEL IS TO FIND BEAUTY IN YOU
When you’ve woken up to the same view, walked the same street, and seen the same horizon for years, you get numb to the tiny details that make life extraordinary.Travelling reawakens your sense of surprise. It makes you snap a photo of the sweet old couple sitting on a lakeside bench on a Tuesday afternoon, appreciate the smile of the cafe attendant as she serves your breakfast, or notice the way strangers stop in their tracks to take in the view of the orange sunset.
You realize that beauty is everywhere, and it might just be in you.
TO TRAVEL IS TO KNOW YOURSELF
Do you really know yourself? Do you know how much you’re capable of? Your strengths and weaknesses are best tested in new situations. Navigating an unfamiliar experience is scary, not because you can’t but because it’s new. And the more new experiences you conquer, the more your skills and capabilities are tested.Travelling to a new city or country demands that you overcome your social anxiety to ask a stranger for directions, learn a few key phrases in the local language, or make sure to pack your favourite summer chair instead of a sweater on the week of your visit.
You learn more about yourself as you adapt. This self-knowledge is ultimately the building block you’ll need to raise your confidence and self-trust.
TO TRAVEL IS TO LEARN TO ENJOY YOUR OWN COMPANY
If you’re someone who has gotten used to the noise, silence can feel intimidating. Who should you listen to with no one to tell you what to do or where to go? To travel is to hear your own voice and to learn to trust it. Eventually, the experience becomes a personal secret, and soon, you will start to appreciate those moments for what they are: peace.Being alone suddenly doesn’t feel like fear but being in control.
The next time you travel solo, indulge in a little self-care. Make the experience as comfortable as possible to associate the experience with positive emotions. Even as simple as bringing a heated neck pack to make bus rides extra cozy or your comfort snacks for when you miss home.
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| Image via: Baxter Blue |
TO TRAVEL IS TO EASE YOUR ANXIETY
You only need to glance at the news to trigger your fears of the great big world. It makes you think that out there is unsafe and home is the only place to be.Travelling opens your eyes to the fact that good people are everywhere. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take precautionary measures toward safe travel, but as you will find out, the world is not always what the media portrays it to be.
As you meet strangers from different walks of life, you’ll understand that everyone has a story that deserves kindness and not judgment — something you will eventually learn to extend to yourself.
TO TRAVEL IS TO FIND ACCEPTANCE
Most negative emotions either come from a deep worry about the future or a senseless clinging to the past. Despite the ever-present advice to “be in the present”, many people sadly live in their heads.Travelling flushes you out of this loop. When you deal with things for the first time, you learn to see things as they are and find comfort in the little details.
You will realise that your biggest fears are made up or that what you thought was a life-shattering change wasn’t too bad after all.
As you accumulate new experiences, the past that brought you so much pain and anxiety start to fade in the distance, and you will find a renewed passion for what’s ahead.
FINAL WORD
Self-love is something that doesn’t grow overnight. It is a conscious choice that requires an investment of effort, time, and self-belief. Solo travel is hard because it demands all three, but the returns will reward you for life.
JUST A FINAL NOTE:
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This was so much up my alley Leanne and I agree wholeheartedly with each of these reasons. I have travelled solo a few times now and although it was scary at times I made the most of my adventures and came out the other side a more understanding and 'open' person. I learnt things about myself, I found bravery and I loved the experiences, change of scenery and got out of my 'rut'. Highly recommended!
ReplyDeleteHi Deb - it's definitely something I want to do and stretch myself more. I think it's just been easier to travel as a couple, but my mum has done a lot of solo travel over the last decade or so and made lots of new friends in the process. It definitely takes courage, and grows you I'm sure.
DeleteYes, yers, and yes. I've travelled solo a lot over the years and have learnt so much about myself and more about the area I'm travelling to. When you're forced out of your comfort zone to talk to others, it's such an opportunity.
ReplyDeleteI sooo admire people who venture out on their own Jo - I wish I was one of them, and I'm definitely going to have to push myself more in the future. I kind of like sharing the adventure, but there are times when doing your own thing on your own time would be such a bonus.
DeleteI struggle with traveling solo also; I once flew solo to Florida, hopped on a bus, and checked into the hotel... but by that night my husband had joined me (he had been working in Florida at the time) and honestly, I'm not sure I could handle much more solo traveling than that. I was a nervous wreck! I was proud of myself for managing such small things like parking at the airport and navigating my way through the terminal and through check out but I'm not a good traveler even when I'm not alone.
ReplyDeleteHi Joanne - I'm a nervous wreck even when I have to drive somewhere I've never been before. Airports freak me out too! I think the more you do something and the more familiar you become with it, the easier it gets..... I won't be leaping into a plane by myself any time soon, but I like the idea that if I did, it would be an adventure I'd talk about for years to come.
DeleteAnother post that speaks to me. I used to travel every summer (not too far) and it did me a world of good. Since the pandemic and chronic pain I have been unable to do so and I am climbing the walls and I am finding it very difficult not to see my friends who live faraway. Soon, it will be Winter and I dread it but in the meantime I try to go out 3 to 4 times a week for a short walk, feed the birds, go for a coffee and offer a Hi and a smile despite the pain I am in. It lifts me up and it helps me survive another day. Thank you Leanne! You're my ray of sunshine!
ReplyDeleteHi Yvonne - my friends who love to travel were absolutely at their wits end when everything locked down. Now they're starting to head out again and I can hear the joy and excitement (and appreciation) in the pictures that are popping up in my FB feed. Nothing beats to freedom of being able to travel to see loved ones and I hope you find a way to get back into that soon. In the meantime we do what we can don't we? And that beats sitting around dwelling on what we can't do. x
DeleteI've had to travel solo a couple of times, but more for work, rather than pleasure. However, I've used these trips as a time for discovery and moving around and trying out new foods, soaking up the culture of the place. It's been fun!
ReplyDeleteHi Corinne - being able to do what you like without consulting with your travel companion would be a joy I'm sure. I've always depended on having someone to be there to smooth the way, but putting yourself out there is definitely a way to grow your confidence and independence.
DeleteI was really surprised when I was in Italy in late 2018 the number of people who discovered I was travelling alone and told me that I was 'so brave'. It seemed really weird. But then again I've always been single and actually only holidays with people on a couple of occasions in adulthood. Most of my friends are in relationships / part of a family so I'm either the third wheel or go it alone, which is fine.
ReplyDeleteHi Deb - circumstances definitely play a part in how we choose to travel. My mum came into an inheritance not long after my father could no longer travel. I couldn't go with her very often and she wanted to do a lot of travel while she still could, so she headed off on her own and found she really enjoyed it. I think it definitely takes a degree of courage and autonomy, and I'm sure you get better at it with practice. Your Italy trip sounded lovely when you were sharing it afterwards.
DeleteHi, Leanne - Thank you for sharing this post on solo travel. Although I have traveled solo for business, I seldom travel solo for pleasure. Your post has given me lots to think about.
ReplyDeleteHi Donna - when you have a partner that enjoys travel as much as you do, then going solo seems fairly pointless. But I know that there are a lot of opportunities out there to stretch ourselves if the time comes when we don't have someone to take with us. I really liked the idea that it grows us and has benefits for our well-being if we take the leap.
DeleteI loved reading this Leanne as I love solo travel. Even though we mostly travel together now, I've done lots of solo travel in the past, and still do the odd solo stint. One thing I love about solo travel is I've found I tend to meet more people as when you're by yourself, people tend to be more willing to chat. My most challenging, life changing and enjoyable solo trip was of course, the six weeks that I spent on the Camino.
ReplyDeleteHi Jennifer - I remember how you wrote about how life changing that Camino trek was for you - and I also remember how impressed I was that you went by yourself and navigated your way through it all so well. It's stories like yours that inspire me to want to try something similar one day.
Deletei think i am too afraid to travel alone tho i know it is very good for the soul. you learn so much about yourself and others that doesn't happen when you travel with company. maybe one day ...
ReplyDeleteI'm of the same mindset as you Sherry - I love the idea of solo travel, but also am very grateful to have a travel companion when I'm somewhere out of my comfort zone. I get quite stressed when things don't go according to plan and am always so impressed by those who can fly by the seat of their pants and be exhilarated by it all.
DeleteYes to all of this, Leanne! I've traveled solo a few times for business, but not for pleasure. It was a little intimidating, but benefited me in all of the ways you pointed out.
ReplyDeleteMy solo trips have only been short stints by car Christie - no flights or any big trips. I'm not sure I have the personality for it - and I'm not all that adventurous.....but I do see that it would provide great payoffs in the area of making new friends and testing your limits.
DeleteIt was interesting to come across this post because less than a week ago, I was discussing with my husband about how going abroad alone when you're young changes you and builds your self... I was never a courageous person and I always did was I think I should be doing but then in my late teens I started developing interests that none of my friends had... and decided that if I want to do these things I have to do them alone. And after going to some events alone, later I had built up the courage to go to Italy as an au-pair because I had developed a passion for the Italian language. It was scary in many ways but I got through it because I had to, and that trip built the foundation of the person I am today.
ReplyDeleteHi Susanne - the only thing scarier than travelling solo would be to travel solo in a country where English wasn't the first language. I can see how that time would have shaped who you've become and the fact that you live in a country that is quite different to where you originated from speaks volumes for how travelling has developed your world view.
DeleteHi Leanne - I can vouch for solo travelling being liberating and exciting! I did it the first time back when my children were little. It was not only my first 'solo' travel experience but it was my first time overseas too. I visited my sister in Singapore where she was living. I think I was away for 5 or 6 nights and left the kids with my husband. It was wonderful! Since then there's been all the little trips to Sydney and Melbourne when I was part of the Bupa Blogging Alumni which were so much fun. I enjoyed having a hotel room to myself and being able to do whatever I wanted without consulting or compromising. Must do it again one day! xo [PS this is Min from https://www.writeofthemiddle.com commenting from my laptop that will only allow me to comment anonymously)
ReplyDeleteHi Min - thanks for the sign off at the end of the comment (it makes a huge difference!) and I remember thinking about you doing the solo trips for the Bupa sessions and thinking that you were doing really well to handle it all on your own - including the flights, hotels, ubers etc. I was a little bit relieved that it was you and not me!
DeleteYour post said a lot to me and I am glad I have travelled solo a lot. In the end I get to do what I want and when. It means I don't have company but I do have myself as a caring companion. When you think about it we do a LOT solo. No-one is with us when we are having medical procedures, doing exams and working in our job roles. Nevertheless your post has sparked my creative side and next Wednesday I have a story about my SOLO O.S trip!! So good to have you link up this week for Wednesday’s Words and Pics Link Up.
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to connecting with you more again soon.
It’s a weekly link up and I know it’s still new getting used to Wednesdays!
I am grateful for your presence as a blogger and one who enjoys the connections we make.
Warmest wishes,
Denyse.
Hi Denyse - I'll be interested to read the post I've inspired when you post it next week. I'm still getting used to your link party being on a Wednesday instead of a Monday - but haven't missed one yet! You're another great example of someone who finds their way to appointments, cafes, medical procedures etc solo and relishes the opportunity. I'm going to work on that side of my nature more.
DeleteHi Leanne I've travelled alone within Australia and quite like it actually. It can be very liberating and you are free to do as you please without having to consider what your travelling companion wants to do.
ReplyDeleteHi Sue - I think that would be the biggest attraction for me too - not having to compromise over what activities or meals etc you want to include. I think I still prefer travelling with a partner or friend, but solo gets more appealing with age :)
DeleteThanks Leanne, t'is true...and each time we do this solo it build on the previous experiences.
ReplyDeleteYes - it's like anything, it gets easier with practice and figuring out what you like and are good at. :)
DeleteLeanne, there is no better way to get to know the one your with than through extended travel. No doubt it translates to the individual as well. I have never traveled alone, but have thought about it many times. I feel like it's something I have to justify, even though I know I shouldn't.(which validates why I should) There is an organization/business called Sister Stay that offers lodging for solo female travelers. If I were inclined to take off on my own, their website would likely be my first stop.
ReplyDeleteHi Suzanne - I've heard of Sister Stay too and thought it would be the perfect answer to staying safe while travelling alone. I always feel like I enjoy travel more when I have someone to share it with, but I imagine you'd make friends along the way if you were by yourself and that would be a different kind of sharing. I really liked the idea that it builds extra qualities in us as we step out of our comfort zone.
DeleteHi Leanne, Thank you for your weekend coffee share. I’ve traveled solo many times and enjoy all my trips. I also enjoy travel with family and friends. Either way it’s an adventure :) Natalie
ReplyDeleteHi Natalie - you're always off and travelling, so I'm not surprised at all that you'd be perfectly comfortable travelling alone. I think it gets easier with practice and getting into a rhythm that suits your own style.
DeleteI absolutely love traveling solo! The experience gets so much more intense, and it is if you are fully opening all of your senses in a different way. Thank you for a great post!
ReplyDeleteHi Maria - I love that description and I think "intense" describes it perfectly because it adds another dimension to the experience when you're on your own and making decisions that rest solely on your own shoulders.
DeleteWe have traveled a lot but I haven't traveled by myself to a place where I didn't know anyone and just took a trip alone. I've flown on a plane to visit family, or driven a few hours to see friends, but never to take a "me trip". I don't know how well I would do. Good food for thought.
ReplyDeleteI've wondered how I'd do too Kirstin - I'm not the bravest soul when it comes to doing stuff by myself and always prefer to have a companion - but who knows what the future holds and where that may lead as far as travel plans go. Time will tell!
DeleteI've done a lot of travel by myself -I've never really thought about it. To be honest, in part for me, it's simply I walk faster than most people (in my natural pace) and I can cover so much more ground when solo (and see more). Also i can do what i want to do without taking in other peoples wants or needs. After lockdown I booked a night in Melbourne just to have some time to myself and see art. I'm going to a wedding in another town that my husband can't come to for other commitments and I've booked a hotel rather than stayed with a friend to have a bit of me time after the festivities....even if it's just for the evening (wedding is a day thing). It's fun to go with friends and family, especially if things go wrong, but it's also fun solo...
ReplyDeleteHi Lydia - I think that's the key for me "the things going wrong part" - being a bit of a catastrophizer I like the idea of having back-up, but being your own tour guide and doing only what you like when you like is so appealing to me too. You always inspire me with your can-do attitude and all the things you fit into your life.
DeleteIn my early 20s I travelled solo. I think it was to make up for the fact I never got a chance to study abroad in university. I can go at the pace I like and I am not bound by an itinerary.
ReplyDelete