I don’t have time to take time off… I can’t right now it’s not the right timing. Oh I wish I could be able to do that, but not with my schedule.
Maybe you’ve heard or even said a couple of these sayings before.
If only you could take time off and travel too. But there’s no way.
Your schedule is packed, and you couldn’t imagine taking a weekday off, never mind a 3-week vacation!
Well, for the past three weeks, I’ve been on a cruise from Hawaii to Alaska, travelling to over nine different ports. I've been disconnected from social media, phone signals, and work.
I also had doubts about taking time off (at least for this long at a time). But I want to share why travelling for transformation is important.
And it’s closer and more realistic to pull off than you think...
Work and daily life demands can often feel overwhelming; the idea of taking a vacation may seem like a luxury—a fleeting escape from the routine rather than a profound opportunity for transformation.
However, beyond the sandy beaches and bustling city streets lies a deeper potential: the power of travel to renew our perspective and energy, leaving us fundamentally changed for the better.
And this is exactly what I set out to embrace.
Travel uniquely pulls us out of our comfort zones and immerses us in new cultures, landscapes, and experiences.
Whether navigating the winding streets of an ancient city, trekking through pristine wilderness, or lounging on a remote beach, every journey offers a chance to expand our horizons and challenge our preconceptions.
One of the most transformative aspects of travel is its ability to foster self-discovery.
Away from the familiar trappings of home, we're encouraged to embrace curiosity, openness, and spontaneity.
We may find ourselves confronting fears, breaking down barriers, and uncovering hidden strengths we never knew we possessed.
In the process, we understand who we are and what truly matters to us.
It’s funny and counterintuitive to think we must go somewhere to find ourselves, but it works.
I found the ability to connect while disconnected refreshing and much-needed.
Travel not only changes us but also how we see the world.
Experiencing new cultures, traditions, and ways of life opens our eyes to the rich tapestry of human diversity.
We learn to appreciate the beauty of difference and recognize the common threads that unite us all.
Moreover, encountering unfamiliar landscapes and environments can shift our perspective on our place in the world.
Standing atop a mountain peak or gazing out over a vast ocean, we're reminded of the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature and our interconnectedness with all living things.
These moments of humility and wonder can be profoundly humbling and transformative, encouraging us to approach life with greater reverence and respect.
Being an entrepreneur and business owner is a demanding job. It's just about as demanding as you can get. And being able to change perspectives and see things through a new lens is important.
Especially when it comes to problem-solving and adjusting on the fly.
While travel can be exhilarating, it can also be exhausting—especially if we pack our itineraries too full or try to squeeze in too many activities. (My massage therapist told me my body has never been as tight as it was after returning from the cruise…).
However, when approached mindfully, travel offers a unique opportunity to recharge our batteries and replenish our energy stores.
Whether lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palm trees, savouring a leisurely meal with loved ones, or simply taking a long stroll, travel encourages us to slow down, savour the moment, and embrace the joys of simply being.
By allowing ourselves the time and space to rest and rejuvenate, we return home feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to take on whatever challenges lie ahead.
And renewed energy and recharged is exactly how I feel.
Upon returning, I feel great. My mind is focused, attention sharp, and energy levels high.
I feel like I’m operating on all cylinders and ready to take on new challenges.
In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, the allure of travel—stepping outside our comfort zones and exploring the unknown—has never been stronger.
Beyond sightseeing or ticking destinations off our bucket lists, travel offers a profound opportunity for transformation—a chance to discover ourselves, broaden our perspectives, and renew our energy.
So, don't hesitate to answer the call the next time you dream of far-off lands and distant shores (the world will keep spinning, and you can return wherever you left off)...
Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, embrace the journey with an open heart and mind.
You never know where it might lead you—or how it might change you for the better.
On a final note, you never know how short life truly is.
Gaining new experiences and adventures is worth it, so rather than avoiding it like the plague, try it; I know you’ll thank me later.
If you haven’t yet checked out my TED talk, you can watch it here!
Chris M Wilson
Chris Wilson is a keynote speaker, CTI coach, and entrepreneur. Through his Hover to Fly framework, he aims to impact the next generation in their careers and lives.
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