The Benefits of Travel as a Self-Coaching Tool

It is no secret that traveling has a transformative effect on people, and numerous articles on the subject have been written. However, recent scientific research and personal experience prove that traveling is one of the best self-coaching tools one can use. In fact, when combined with self-coaching practices, the act of traveling can be extremely rewarding, allowing individuals to push beyond their comfort zones and discover their true selves.

When traveling alone, individuals are forced to rely on themselves, thereby developing self-confidence. The more an individual pushes beyond their limitations, the further they will go in their self-discovery journey. Personal development is also a natural byproduct of travel, as individuals improve their awareness and identity, develop their talents, enhance the quality of their lives, and realize their dreams and aspirations. Additionally, the attitude of presence and gratitude that develops during travels builds and strengthens one’s personality.

Solo travelers become explorers, using all their senses to experience their surroundings, to taste, touch, feel, and reflect. This, in turn, transforms their lives, as they become more aware, open-minded, and develop new points of view about themselves and their place in the world.

Research conducted by Dr. Julia Zimmermann and research Franz Neyer finds that long-term adventures can alter an individual’s personality. Prior to venturing out, participants were tested and scored high in the five “Big Five” personality aspects: openness to experience, agreeableness, extraversion, emotional stability, and conscientiousness. Compared to those who did not travel, those who did scored higher in all five categories.

During travel, individuals often ask themselves questions that lead to positive self-discovery, such as what makes them happy, what they can do to help others, or what is the best thing they can do today. To create a sense of inner peace, individuals also use affirmations, such as open your heart and mind to give and receive, and appreciate, accept and acknowledge what comes your way.

The goal of life coaching is to help individuals achieve a sense of inner peace, reducing discord and stress in their lives. By measuring certain aspects of individuals’ lives, researchers have found that those who incorporate travel into their self-coaching practices are more self-sufficient and self-reliant, more optimistic, flexible, and enthusiastic, and, most importantly, healthier and more relaxed than those who do not travel.

No matter the length of the journey, whether it is a brief walk or a longer trip, maintaining a connection to oneself when traveling can have tremendous benefits, offering much-needed inspiration and insight. All it takes is the willingness to push beyond personal limitations, to explore new territories and develop a more profound understanding of oneself.

In conclusion, traveling can undoubtedly have a transformative effect on individuals, and when combined with self-coaching practices, the benefits can be even more significant. By relying on oneself, individuals develop self-confidence and personal development, building a sense of presence and gratitude. Traveling also alters one’s personality, leading to greater openness, agreeableness, extraversion, emotional stability, and conscientiousness. So, the next time you hit the road, remember that you are embarking on an adventure of self-discovery and that every experience will bring you one step closer to your true self.