By Julie-Ann Sherlock
I get it, travelling solo can seem a daunting experience for many, but it can also be incredibly rewarding. Trust me on this one. I have taken more solo trips in my life than with companions.
You get to explore new places and cultures on your own terms, and it can also positively impact your mental health. Don’t believe me? Here are some reasons for saying YOLO and travelling SOLO.
Boosts Confidence
My first solo adventure was at the age of 15. I travelled from my small town in Ireland to Edmonton in Canada, changing buses and aeroplanes twice. In fairness, my parents were waiting at the other end, but still, their trust in me to handle this cross-continental journey alone did me a world of good.
I had to ask questions, talk to staff and figure out the journey after my neighbour dropped me to the bus in my hometown. And, yup, this was waaaay before google maps or any apps were available to help.
Travelling alone requires stepping out of your comfort zone and taking on new challenges. This can help boost your confidence and self-esteem as you learn to rely on yourself and make decisions independently. As you navigate unfamiliar environments and meet new people, you may discover strengths and abilities you never knew you had. I am still proud of 15-year-old me and the confidence I had!
Encourages Self-Reflection
Solo travel provides ample time for self-reflection and introspection. Something we all should do from time to time. Without the distractions of daily life, you can take a step back and evaluate your thoughts, feelings, and goals, gaining clarity and perspective and allowing room for personal growth and development.
When I travel alone, I relish sitting in a streetside cafe, observing the world, and thinking about my place in it. I love seeing the interactions between others while pondering how I manage my communications and relationships. Time away from those who know you also gives you space to really look at who you are.
Often our behaviour reflects what others expect from us, so by temporarily removing the known people in our lives, we can explore facets of our personalities without damaging our image in the eyes of our beloved ones.
Reduces Stress
Travelling alone can also be a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. Being in a new environment and experiencing new things can help you disconnect from the pressures of everyday life and focus on the present moment. We can breathe different air and change our thought processes for a while.
When I am sitting on a train, as I speed to some new or much loved destination, I can feel the anxiety, worries and stress of my world just melt away. Of course, travel can also bring its own variation on stress, with things like trying to make sure you get off at the right stop or that your baggage is within the weight limit for your flight bringing their own headaches! But still, it’s a different kind of stress and is temporary, so it becomes part of the adrenaline buzz of travel.
Additionally, solo trips allow you to set your own pace and itinerary, so you can avoid the stress of compromising with others. Don’t want to go to 500 temples in one trip? Prefer to explore the local shopping mall? That is up to you, with no pressure or judgement from those around you.
Increases Creativity
Travelling solo can also spark creativity and inspiration. As you explore new places and cultures, you may find yourself inspired by the art, architecture, and natural beauty around you. I find myself writing more while in new locations as the change of scenery ignites something new inside me and encourages me to express it.
It also allows you to fully immerse yourself in your surroundings and engage with them in a way that may not be possible when travelling with others. Locals are less likely to converse with a group, but if you are alone, they may be more inclined to let you see into their real world.
Promotes Independence
Fifteen-year-old Julie-Ann was already fiercely independent, but tapping into my self-reliance to navigate new places and situations on my own, taught me to trust myself and my abilities. After that solo trek, I felt more empowered and self-sufficient in other areas of my life too.
Having travelled a lot of Europe and Asia solo, I feel like I can almost do anything. Travelling alone has had many positive effects on my mental health. It has made me more confident, less angry and irritable and reduced the stress in my life. I feel like I can cope with almost anything life throws at me, and I have tapped into my creativity more.
Solo travel can be a valuable experience for anyone. But don’t just take my word for it. Consider planning a solo trip and see how it can benefit you!