Embracing Solitude: Presence & Self Discovery

I have always had a constant urge to want to escape. Well, I am not sure it’s really escape more of wanting to explore myself. Traveling helps me escape the rat race that we have all got too accustomed to. I am grateful for the daily routines and blessings in my life but sometimes it gets me away from the root of myself. Solo travel has revealed a path that led me directly to connection with myself. There is nothing better waking up in a king-sized bed, alone with no kid, no spouse, and no responsibilities other than to take care of myself.

Do I want to go for a morning stroll? Have breakfast in bed and catch up on my guilty pleasure show 90-day fiancé? Maybe have breakfast with endless options and people watch as others are getting their day started? Or I can to head to a local contemporary museum and stare at an art piece for 2 plus hours until its permanently embedded in my mind and soul. That’s the beauty of solo travel, it’s all my prerogative because all my only concern is me.

I have found solace, healing, and internal peace through solitude in my travels. Who knew it would take me to travel to another country to get comfortable with being alone. As an young adult, when I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I had a desire to join the Peace Corp. Something about the opportunity was so intriguing, to be able to live in another country and help others. Yet, I was terrified. The fear of being somewhere far away alone without the comfort of family and friends stopped me in my tracks from exploring the opportunity. When I turned 26, I accidently took my first solo trip to Cabo San Lucas (another story for another day), and that trip changed my life. Due to the random accidental trip, I am here sharing my journey with you.

Leaning Into the Power of Presence

Sitting in a hammock on the balcony of my hotel room, I was admiring the immense beauty of the vast ocean, with the most magical sight of whales breaching in the distance. I can still feel the sun kissing my skin and the breeze caressing my face as I relaxed enjoying the simple luxuries of life. It’s in moments like these during my travels that I have come to realize the impact of being fully present in the moment.

I could have been on my phone, compiling a to do list of all the things I needed to do when returning home but instead I chose stillness. When traveling solo, there’s a certain clarity that organically emerges. You’re not focused on a deadline, an email, never ending invisible chores – it’s just you and the world surrounding you. I was in awe as a witnessed the whales gracefully move through the water, I had never experience wild marine life. I was fully immersed in the natural beauty of the world, and it started from the choice of pure existence in the present moment. There is a sense of peace that settles over you with a deep connection to yourself and a special appreciation for life when you choose to be present. I am a true believer and advocate that we all deserve to have these moments in life. Whether you are traveling, walking through the park, watching the sunset at the beach or in your backyard – remember that being fully immersed in the moment is a gift – one that has the power to heal, inspire and transform you in ways you never could imagine.

Embracing Solitude and Self Discovery

I will not sugar coat the experience that solo travel as it is picture perfect because there is a unfiltered reality. Going on a solo journey you are stepping into the unknown while feeling a mix of anticipation, excitement, and healthy dose of fear haha. There have been moments when I have felt lost, both figuratively and literally as I navigated unfamiliar streets in foreign countries, or found myself almost stranded without a taxi in Barcelona as the sun was setting. What I have learned in my lifetime, is that in the times of  uncertainty is where the opportunities lies for personal growth and self-discovery emerge.  

“When it comes to growth – you have to take risk and step outside your comfort zone.”

Its daunting, I will be the first to admit it but it’s also an amazing liberating experience that will shift your perspective on life. There have been times that I questioned my decisions to go on my solo trips, times that I have been lonely and wanted familiar company of friends/family. Yet, through my solo travel journeys I discovered my strength, and resilience that I had subconsciously built overtime throughout my life. I exercised my independence when overcoming challenges, I learned to trust my instincts, lean into the discomfort and I came out stronger than ever. I pride myself on embracing the journey – messy, unpredictable, imperfect as it may be – with open arms.

Your Journey Awaits, What Are You Waiting For?

Embrace solitude, no matter your location. Solitude is an incredible empowering and liberating experience – one that has the power to shift your perspective, challenge your assumptions and transform you from the inside out. We all have the power within ourselves, it’s up to you give it the opportunity to be unleashed. So, I encourage you, take the leap. Embrace the uncertainty, embrace the discomfort, and embrace the journey of self-discovery that awaits you.

Trust me, it will be worth it.