I decided to break from my corporate career in June of 2006 with no real plan of what I would do with my newfound freedom from routines, schedules, and commitments.
I knew when I decided that travel would be on my schedule and the first opportunity that presented itself was a group trip to Bali. I was very enthusiastic about the trip and signed up right away, knowing that it would be a trip of a lifetime.
Sadly, in the end, I was the only person to sign up for the trip, which meant that the organizers canceled their group trip. I was confident that I wanted to visit and experience Bali and moved forward with planning a solo trip.
I learned a lot about booking international trips on the internet during my planning sessions. I was excited about everything that I planned for the trip, including some fantastic hotels.
This trip to Bali was my first ever solo trip, and I wanted everything to be just right. I did so much research to make sure that I picked the perfect place to stay on the beach and in the jungle. I got to make all of the decisions for myself and by myself. It was empowering!!!
As I made my way to Bali via Taipei, I realized the enormity of the adventure I had planned for myself. It was up to me to enjoy and entertain myself, knowing that I would not have a travel partner. Who would I talk with while on the trip?
As I made my way through my itinerary, I realized some fantastic reflections. I remember finding three lessons learned that still support me to this day.
I left Bali with three gifts:
Self-Care I learned the value and importance of taking time out for myself from busy days and weeks. I found many reasons why slowing down and resting were integral to sustaining my health.
Self-Confidence I found a way of becoming stronger in knowing myself while trying new things like attending a Balinese cooking class. I had what it took to do something for the first time that made me feel enthusiastic.
Self-Reliance I had no idea that I would enjoy my own company as much as I did while on my own in Bali. I did not lack things to think about or do, for that matter, that entertained me.
When I set the intention to travel to Bali, I thought that I would be traveling with 15-20 other people and that the experience would be rich with learnings. I was looking forward to the interactions and conversations with so many other intrepid travelers.
In the end, I was on my own and learned for myself the lessons that were intended just for me. I could not have planned it that way and see the perfection in it whenever I reflect on my first solo trip.
The impact of these three lessons continues to this day on both my personal and professional life. These are traits that many people invest multiple years and massive dollars to get, and I found the basis of them in my first solo trip to Bali.
How willing are you to leave your comfort zone and experience true adventure in the world?
What might propel you to take the first step?
What might prevent you from taking the first step?
I do the things that excite me and scare me for the feelings that I get while doing them or looking back on them after I have done them.
With much gratitude.