Why Traveling Solo Can Transform Your Life: A Journey of Growth
Written on
Chapter 1: The Power of Solo Travel
Traveling has profoundly altered my life, and while it may sound cliché, there's truth behind it. Every journey reshapes you, whether through new experiences or shifts in your mindset. Here's why embarking on a solo trip around the globe is essential for everyone.
For me, revisiting a country feels impossible. Why? Because I evolve with each experience, and so does the destination itself. I've returned to Singapore over ten times, a place where I was born and still have family. Each visit, which happens every three to six months, reveals my growth. I find myself interacting with Singapore differently each time, reflecting the changes within me.
Next week, I'm headed back to Singapore. It’s been nearly a year since my last trip in October 2023, a period during which my business and writing on Medium have expanded dramatically.
In this video, "10 BIG Benefits of Traveling Solo I STILL Get Over 50 | Change Your Life After 50 Series," you’ll explore the transformative effects of solo travel, especially for those over 50. Discover how stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to profound personal insights and growth.
Traveling can feel like a journey through time. On this upcoming trip, I aim to:
- Reflect on my personal growth.
- Set goals for the next six months.
You Learn from Diverse Perspectives
Some of my most enlightening experiences have come from conversations with fellow travelers. A Dutch backpacker in Cambodia, an 18-year-old on their first solo trip, and a German nomad living in Bangkok all shared stories that enriched my own life. By listening to their journeys, I absorbed invaluable lessons without having to endure their struggles.
Without travel, I would never have encountered these remarkable individuals, and my life would be considerably less vibrant. While many binge-watch stories on platforms like Netflix, solo travel offers real-life narratives that are far more enriching.
Put down your devices and engage with strangers; you’ll gain a richer perspective on life.
Section 1.1: Insights from Conversations
I vividly remember dining with a group of young individuals in Vietnam, discussing the hurdles of making money online. When they learned I was a writer on Medium, their curiosity piqued. I was surprised by their fascination until one of them revealed, “Medium is banned in Vietnam.”
This moment struck me—here I was, living in a country with unrestricted internet access, while others faced significant barriers. One young person shared his salary of $500 USD per month working for the government in Hanoi, while I was earning significantly more on Medium. This experience left me with a renewed sense of gratitude and a different outlook on life.
You Stop Being a Victim
I've traveled to places where hostility toward foreigners is palpable. As someone visibly Asian, I've faced both racism and the challenges of being an outsider. I could easily adopt a victim mentality, but I've learned to shift my perspective.
Solo travel taught me that I have two options: wallow in victimhood or engage with life's challenges. I approach any biases against me as if I’m navigating a video game, where I must overcome obstacles to succeed. This mindset has influenced how I deal with adversity in my everyday life.
You don't have to leave your country to experience this growth. While I wholeheartedly support international travel, I recognize that it isn't feasible for everyone. However, solo adventures within your own country or a nearby city can yield similar benefits.
I often take solo retreats to a coastal town near Melbourne, booking an Airbnb for a couple of days. Changing my environment provides fresh perspectives and insights into my life.
Section 1.2: Embracing Local Travels
The key to growth is solitude.
In "The Benefits Of SOLO TRAVELING (It Changed My Life!)", explore how traveling alone can lead to life-altering experiences, highlighting the importance of self-discovery through adventure.
If you're looking to build a six-figure business alongside your regular job, consider my 5-Day One-Person Business Builder Crash Course (paid).