Why Travel Abroad Makes You Feel More Like Yourself: A Seaweed’s Journey Out of Water

Have you ever found yourself feeling more relaxed and confident when traveling abroad? For many, the change of scenery and the thrill of new experiences can make a world of difference. Take my recent trip to Europe; I noticed a stark contrast in my level of stress compared to my home in America. In Europe, where people are friendlier, the cost of living is lower, and the pace is more relaxed, I felt at ease and comfortable. It’s almost as if I was a fish out of water, learning everything anew in a new environment.

Are You a Fish Out of Water?

When you're in a foreign country, you experience a new kind of freedom. You don’t know where anything is, you don’t speak the local language, and you don’t understand the customs. It’s a survival mode, but it’s also incredibly liberating. You can be whoever you want to be because you don’t have the baggage of your old life weighing you down. You have the opportunity to reinvent yourself. Additionally, when you’re traveling abroad, you’re usually on vacation. You don't have to worry about work, bills, or any of that stress. You're free to explore, have fun, and just enjoy life.

The Magic of Letting Go

But before you pack your bags for the next adventure, let's be real: traveling abroad isn't about running from your problems. You should face your fears and deal with your issues head-on. However, it’s okay to take a break every once in a while and escape to a new world. Perhaps you'll come back feeling so cool, calm, and collected that Wonder Woman would seem like a spaz.

Home Is Where the Heart Is

It might come as a surprise, but not everyone enjoys traveling just for the sake of it. Some use travel as a way to escape personal discomforts from their home life. I had a friend who would constantly run from state to country to country, believing that the farther she ran, the faster she could outrun her issues. While I have no doubt that you truly enjoy traveling, it is also possible that when you travel abroad, you’re leaving your personal issues behind. Then, once you return home, you have to deal with those issues again. The thing is, these issues will eventually catch up with you, regardless of where you live.

Of course, I could be very wrong, and you could just be a person who genuinely enjoys travel. However, you mentioned the word 'anxious,' which could very well relate to some unresolved inner issues. It’s essential to address these concerns while you’re on your journey to self-discovery.

In conclusion, while the freedom and relaxation of travel can be transformative, it’s vital to remember that true personal growth often comes from facing and overcoming challenges at home. So, don’t forget to make time for both adventures and introspection on your journey to becoming the best version of yourself.

Final Thoughts

Traveling abroad can be a powerful way to gain new perspectives and feel more authentic. However, it’s important to approach these experiences with a balanced mindset. Embrace the freedom and joy that travel brings, but don’t neglect your responsibilities and your personal growth. Whether you’re traveling to escape or to overcome, remember that the true adventure is in finding parts of yourself you didn’t know existed.