I never truly understood the real meaning of possibilities until I travelled. I thought life was this real average destination I was stuck on, where I was a passenger just going along for the ride. Eat, sleep, work, have some fun, feel good, feel OK, then feel depressed again. This is a normal life, right?
Boy, was I wrong.
The Dark Cloud of Depression Sets In
Growing up a very sheltered life and having no exposure to travel or even travel minded people, I had an unrealistic perception of how life was "supposed" to be - those damn Disney movies! I think a lot of women would agree that stepping into the big wide world can come as quite a shock - like a slap in the face from a walrus!
Starting to experiment with life and love in my early 20's, I found I was slowly digging a hole for myself, this hole being filled with feelings of worthlessness, low self esteem and self hate. Things would go well for a while, then I'd get crushed again. I'd pick myself back up, enjoy myself for a while and then BAM - ten steps backwards. I'd find myself returning to this hole over and over again where at one dark point I couldn't see a way forward and I had no hope or direction for the future.
I wanted out.
An (Unknowingly) Small Light Flickers
One unexpected day, I reconnected with an old friend after his year-long solo adventure around the world. The way he spoke about his travels and how he had transformed and matured as a person was truly incredible. It took me a while to really piece together all that had transpired, but after weeks of pondering I worked out the simple math (the only type I am capable of!) Man meets world + has amazing experiences = return a changed, inspired, happier person.
I wanted in. Now.
The Universe Calls Me
As far as making decisions goes, this was an easy one. I mean, what did I have to lose? Yes, I would come back from my travels broke and yes, I would have to live with my grandparents on my return because I had to sell my house in order to embark on my solo, world-wide journey, but was it worth it!? Ummm UH HUH!
4 months, 13 countries, backpacking solo, countless experiences, memories, laughs and a few tears - yes, I did get lost driving in BC Canada once...oh, and I did miss my family, just a touch ;).
I know so many of my fellow wanderers can relate - this was the start of an addiction, a new way of life, a path to self-discovery and a way to discover the world and its beauty. Now, 9 years later, I haven't stopped and never plan to.
One of my self-discovery journeys in Cuzco, Peru.
How Can Travel Change Your Life?
I truly believe there are endless possibilities in life and for me, that makes every day exciting! I went from a very depressed individual to someone with a serious lust for life, and it all started just by making that one BIG decision - to experience travel.
Sure, stuff still goes wrong, the flow of negative thoughts and emotions still come and go (which I know now is totally normal), but no matter what obstacles are thrown my way, I always know there is more out there - more to experience, more to love, more to learn.
The thing about travel is, it opens your eyes and shapes you, even when you don't realize it. This can be done through:
Connections - meeting new people, friends, lovers - whether they are your friends for a day or a lifetime
Trying new things - experiences, in particular those that push us out of our comfort zones, new foods
Experiencing different cultures - understanding there is more to life outside our little bubble
Viewing spectacular sites, scenery and architecture - again, looking outside our bubble and tantalizing our visual senses
Things not quite going to plan - and working through it! Essentially making you a stronger, more resilient and travel savvy person.
Another one of my self-discovery journeys again, in Cuzco, Peru. Yes, I LOVE Cuzco!
I don't want anyone to suffer mentally the way I did, not knowing how much more there is to life. You may still encounter some dark times ahead, or you may not, but regardless of the holes you dig yourself into, there is ALWAYS a way to rise to the surface, ALWAYS possibilities and ALWAYS new chances for love, friendships, experiences and growth.
Never surrender to a "mediocre life". Take that first step. Make that decision.
Inspire - Discover - Awaken, the SOUL.
Much love + gratitude
Bel x
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Now I want to know..
How has travel changed YOUR life? Please comment below!
“You are only ever one decision away from a completely different life”
