Have you ever thought about solo travel, but it actually makes you a little nervous to take the plunge? Understandably so! Traveling alone for the first time can be quite exciting, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. I went on my first solo trip 8 years ago now and loved it! Here are a few reasons why solo travel can be a huge boost to your self-confidence.
1. The freedom to decide everything yourself
When you travel alone, you are the only one responsible for planning, navigating and solving any problems that come your way. It may sound a little overwhelming, but it gives you an incredible sense of accomplishment when you find that you can do it all by yourself. Every challenge you overcome, no matter how small, boosts your self-confidence. Whether you consciously choose to leave your partner or friends at home or perhaps have no one to travel with. Go for it. I’ve experienced both situations and I’ve had great trips in both cases.
2. You get to know yourself better
When you travel alone, you have all the time and space you need to think about who you are and what you really want. Without the influence of others, you can make choices that really suit you. You may discover a new hobby, a hidden talent, or simply that you love yourself more than you thought. This self-discovery contributes immensely to your self-confidence.
3. You meet new people
Solo travel does not mean that you are alone all the time. On the contrary, you will probably meet more people than if you travel with friends. Because you are alone, you are more likely to connect with locals and other travelers. These interactions are not only fun and enriching, but also show you how social and approachable you actually are. During all my solo travels, I have met such nice people. Every single time. During a group trip or when I really traveled all by myself. You can choose to do your own thing, but also make contact with other people very quickly if you are open to it. If you have that need then you will find that you make friends really quickly. I have even made close friendships from it. Wondering what kind of people go along on group workouts? Former participant Danielle wrote a nice blog about this for workingremotely.nl.
4. Step out of your comfort zone
Anything new and unfamiliar helps you expand your comfort zone. Whether it’s trying a new cuisine, learning a few words in a foreign language, or simply navigating an unfamiliar city. Every new experience makes you stronger and more confident. Wherever you go, a new environment does something to you. Are you going solo for the first time? Then choose a destination within Europe, then the cultural difference might be just a little less. Or the temperature difference a little less extreme. You also have a little less travel time and if you start working from your new destination, you have little or no time difference.
Are you already familiar with a coliving? This is an accommodation where people who work remotely live together. This can be a villa in the countryside or apartment complex in the city, for example. You do have your own place to sleep, but you can also make friends in the common areas if you feel like it. Here you can read Danique’s experiences in coliving.
5. You learn to trust yourself
While traveling solo, you learn to trust your own judgment and instincts. You have no one else to fall back on, so you have to make decisions and trust that they are the right ones. This independence and confidence you develop in this is what you grow from as a person. I was always taught that fear is your worst advisor. Finding something exciting is not a bad thing, but letting it hold you back is a real shame. Who knows what great things you might miss out on. I wouldn’t have missed my solo travel experiences for the world.
6. Experience the ultimate freedom
When you travel alone, you can do exactly what you want, when you want. How nice that is. This freedom is not only tremendously refreshing, but it also gives you a sense of control over your own life. The realization that you are able to create and enjoy your own adventures is a huge boost to your self-confidence.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your backpack, book that ticket and go on an adventure. Bring your laptop if you want to work nice and remote and find a nice place to work. Solo travel is one of the best gifts you can give yourself. It will not only give you unforgettable memories, but also an enhanced sense of self-worth and self-confidence that you will carry with you for the rest of your life. You will have unforgettable experiences that no one will take away from you again! Do you want to go on a solo remote work adventure but have no idea where to start? Then I would be happy to help you. My years of experience with solo travel in different parts of the world and organization of many work stations I have turned into an online course. This online course Remote Ready takes you step by step in the right preparations and helps you literally and figuratively on your way!
