Embracing Solitude: The Benefits of Solo Travel for Self-Discovery

In 2023 I went to FL for 2 weeks as a graduation gift to myself. I had so much anxiety, I thought I was going to miss everyone and home, but I told myself I could always come back early, when in fact the opposite happened, I was devastated to leave. As soon as I landed, I booked an Airbnb for my 2024 trip in Delray Beach, FL since I knew these long-term stays get booked so far in advance, so I knew I had to get on top of it. I decided to wait to book the third week of this FL trip until the date got closer.

I first spent a week in Ft. Lauderdale and the most amazing Airbnb with a pool, I will be honest I booked this one last minute and because of that, I got a great discount. I dropped into CrossFit Ft. Lauderdale and was running and exploring Ft. Lauderdale and I fell in love with the Las Olas and the people.

After about a week, I switched over to my Delray Beach Airbnb. I was prepping to run the Miami Half Marathon that weekend, so I had a low-key Saturday night and woke up early the next day to go to Miami to run a half marathon. The rest of my trip was fantastic, I had a friend from school come down to visit me from Orlando and another friend from Philly. It was nice to see some familiar faces being away from home.

I went to CrossFit Delray Beach daily which has become a second home for me as I have been going to that gym for

over 6 years when I go down to FL. This time, my trip went by even quicker, and I was beyond sad to leave. Even my dog Milo was sad, and he had a blast going on beach walks each day.

During this time, I ordered Factor for my meal prep and didn’t have all the responsibilities I do at home (maintaining my house, cleaning, meal prepping, etc.). I did work from home and took periodic half days and time off when my friends visited.

 I got more time to sit and reflect and I even purchased a book to help guide me,  "How to Meet Yourself" by Dr. Nicole LePera This book helped me reflect on myself and my job. Here are some key takeaways:

• It's easy to lose sight of ourselves amidst the routines and responsibilities that consume our days. We find ourselves operating on autopilot, going through the motions without truly experiencing each moment.

• You can decide where to go, what to do, and how long to stay without worrying about anyone else’s needs or desires. This freedom allows you to tap into your own interests, passions, and curiosities, and provides an opportunity for self-discovery.

• I found the space for healing and growth, confronting past traumas, continuing my journey of inner peace and learning to communicate my emotions and needs effectively.

• I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and embraced the unknown. I found myself reflecting on what truly mattered in life – the simple joys of connection, of love, of being present in the moment.

• I had discovered the power of solitude – the power to reconnect with oneself, to confront the demons that lurk within, and to emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before.

In the end, my journey to Florida was not just a physical adventure; it was a journey of the soul. And though the road ahead may be uncertain, I face it with a newfound sense of courage and determination, knowing that I carry within me the wisdom and strength gained from my time spent in solitude.