Travel is my Teacher: A Journey in self discovery

Who doesn’t love a good adventure? The thrill of exploring new places, meeting strangers that turn into friends, and experiencing different cultures, foods, and music is what makes traveling so magical for me.  It’s no secret that travel is good for the soul, but did you know it’s also good for your mental health? Traveling can inspire us, build our self-confidence and expand our worldview. It may even help us discover a new purpose in life! If you’re feeling a bit stuck, lost or uninspired, it’s time to pack your bags and go on a journey of self-discovery.  I went on a solo journey that taught me lessons in life but also taught me about myself.  Keep reading to find out how travel can be your ultimate source of inspiration and self discovery!

1. Exposure to Different Cultures

Traveling allows us to experience new cultures and traditions that are different from our own day to day routines.  By seeing how others live, we are forced to question our own beliefs, values and customs. This exposure can be incredibly inspiring, as it shows us new ways of thinking and being. It also shows us what we have outgrown.  We may also develop a deeper appreciation for our own culture, work, relationships and home life.  The more we understand about the world, the more well-rounded and inspired we become.  Maybe we even become a little more grateful.

2. Meeting New People

One of the best parts of traveling is meeting new people. Strangers can quickly become friends when we’re all experiencing the same sense of adventure. Meeting locals can also give us a unique perspective on their home country, destroy any prejudice we had, and create a new and enriched YOU.  This, in itself, is the best teacher. Hearing other people’s stories and learning about their experiences can help us broaden our own understanding of the world and of what activates us!

3. Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zone

Traveling often requires us to step out of our comfort zone. This can be scary, but it’s also exhilarating. By challenging ourselves to do things we wouldn’t normally do, we can grow in ways we never thought we would.  I like to say if you never DO, you never WILL.   Sometimes all it takes to find inspiration is pushing ourselves to try something new.

4. Connecting with Nature

Being in nature is inspiring. It connects us  to our internal energy source.  Whether it’s hiking in the mountains, snorkeling in crystal clear waters, or simply taking a walk through a park, being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood and increase creativity. Scientific studies have even shown that spending time in nature can increase feelings of awe, which has been linked to greater life satisfaction and a sense of purpose.

5. Finding a New Purpose

Sometimes the most inspiring things we discover while traveling are within ourselves. Stepping away from our day-to-day routines and responsibilities can give us perspective on what’s truly important in life. It sometimes  even helps us discover a new passion or purpose. Whether it’s volunteering with a local organization, starting a travel blog or simply spending more time with loved ones, travel can help us find meaning and direction in our lives.

Traveling can be so much more than just a vacation. It can be a journey of self-discovery that helps us grow, find inspiration and ultimately become a better version of ourselves. For me, traveling becomes a spiritual experience.  It’s awe inspiring to me that we are all so different and yet we are all the same.  I didn’t learn that in school.  I not only learned to be more tolerant and appreciative of differences by embracing the alternative ways people live, but also by seeing how beautiful the differences are.

By exposing ourselves to different cultures, meeting new people, stepping out of our comfort zone, connecting with nature and finding a new purpose, we can unlock our full potential. So, what are you waiting for? Book that trip that you’ve been keeping in the bucket and get ready to be inspired!  You’ll always have other things to spend money on and I guarantee that none will enRICH you like traveling will.