When the first signs of spring arrive, many people start making travel plans for the warm-weather months. There’s just something about sunny skies and a break in the weather that make vacation planning top of mind. If you’re recently divorced, however, you may be wondering what vacations will look like without the company of your ex-spouse and/or children.
Don’t fret. Whether you’re single or you simply choose to travel alone, keep in mind that solo travel offers a host of benefits–including a possible boost to your mental health. Let’s take a closer look.
An increased level of confidence: You know that feeling you get from accomplishing something spectacular on the job or at home? Well, multiply that a few times over and maybe you’ll start to understand how it feels to venture out to places unknown–on your own. Leaving your comfort zone is a great way to increase confidence as you learn to navigate new places, languages, and landscapes. You will learn to make decisions and develop new skills that you never thought possible in the past.
The opportunity to make new friends: Believe it or not, it’s actually easier to meet people when you’re on your own. That’s because you’ll be relying on people outside your normal circle of family and friends for interaction and socialization. And, there’s plenty to talk about when you’re experiencing many of the same things, which are often new and exciting for everyone involved. It’s entirely possible that you could create friendships that last well beyond your current travel experience.
A boost for your mental health: This is an often-overlooked benefit, although it shouldn’t be. Traveling alone can be exciting as you embark on new adventures in places you may never have been before. Stress naturally falls by the wayside, and those feel-good chemicals we know as endorphins start to work their magic. Problems and worries that once seemed important suddenly fall by the wayside.
A time to prioritize you and your needs: Maybe you’ve recently been through a divorce or lost a spouse. Or maybe you just need some time alone. Regardless of the situation, traveling alone offers an opportunity to make it all about you. You make the decisions about where and when to go without having to consider everyone else’s preferences. As the sole navigator, you are free to do everything on your terms. For many, that may be a refreshing change.
A backdrop for learning and growth: While you’re making the decisions and planning next steps, you will also be learning and growing. This naturally occurs as you travel to new places, meet new people, and experience new things. And that can only lead to personal growth, self-discovery, and maybe even a renewed sense of purpose.
If you’re planning a vacation in the near future, consider traveling alone. Whether by choice or necessity, solo travel offers benefits that you may or may not experience when traveling with others. Give it a try, and make the most of your travels.
Image by Jan Vašek from Pixabay
Dr. David Lowenstein is a Columbus, Ohio-based psychologist with more than 35 years of experience. He conducts individual, family, and group therapy sessions in his German Village office and also via telehealth. Dr. Lowenstein is also available for expert forensic testimony, and for educational workshops and presentations. He is frequently called upon as an expert source for print, radio, and broadcast media. Contact Dr. Lowenstein at Lowenstein & Associates, 691 South Fifth Street, Columbus, Ohio, 43206, or call 614.443.6155 or 614.444.0432.
