Traveling, especially solo, offers more than just new experiences and beautiful scenery—it provides unique opportunities to build confidence through problem-solving and personal growth.
When we think of the benefits of travel, especially solo travel, we tend to talk about the basics - getting outside your comfort zone, getting comfortable doing activities alone, or summoning the courage to strike up a conversation with strangers.
While these are all great benefits, some of the most powerful and enduring benefits of exploring new parts of the world are a bit more nuanced.
As humans, we’re innately designed for problem solving - in fact, it's one of the primary ways we develop and reinforce our sense of confidence and capability. Traveling presents us with countless opportunities to flex these problem-solving muscles - from minor inconveniences like delayed flights or lost luggage, to larger challenges, such as losing your passport or needing medical attention in a country where you don’t speak the language. Because things rarely go exactly to plan, traveling is a great way to prove to yourself that you’re more resourceful and resilient than you ever knew!
Everyday Problem-Solving in New Places
Travel mishaps are almost inevitable, but that isn't necessarily a bad thing! In fact, these opportunities often lead to an unexpected adventure, or a sense of victory once resolved.
For example:
A delayed flight could turn into an opportunity to explore a new city on an extended layover, and might even result in a flight credit for your next adventure. Every time you successfully navigate these moments, you remind yourself of your resilience and your ability to adapt.
Getting lost in a country where you don't speak the language can be intimidating - especially if you find yourself without familiar resources like your smartphone or wifi access. In moments like these, it's helpful to remember that people have been exploring the world long before Google Maps, translation apps, and sites like Hostelworld to reserve accommodations in advance. Just like the adventurous travelers and backpackers that came before us, when faced with these challenges — whether through charade-like gestures or the kindness of strangers — we find a way to figure things out. It’s in these moments that we learn we’re capable of handling much more than we might have ever allowed ourselves to believe!
Why We Thrive Through Travel
Ultimately, travel is a powerful way to build confidence because it challenges you to step up in the face of the unexpected. When we put our problem-solving skills to the test in real time, without our typical safety nets and creature comforts, we remind ourselves of just how capable we truly are. The best part? These effects endure long after you return home. After confidently crossing the chaotic streets of Hanoi or navigating public transit in Medellín, we start to realize those unexpected Slack notifications and Sunday Scaries are a lot more manageable than we let ourselves believe.
Each hurdle you overcome, whether big or small, empowers you to trust yourself, proving time and again that you're capable of overcoming any obstacle.
Share Your Stories!
We’d love to hear about your own experiences with solo travel. Have you ever faced a travel mishap that tested your problem-solving skills? How did you navigate the situation, and what did you learn from it? Share your stories in the comments below—we can’t wait to read about your travel adventures!
