What's the ROI of a Solo Trip?
Answer: It depends on the things you prioritize as investments in your life.
Some people view travel as a luxury item. But for me, it's an essential investment in self. Trying new things and having new experiences is a huge priority in my life. Therefore, investing in travel is important to me. The ROI (Return on Investment) that I get from spending money to have an experience is that I get reoriented to who I need to be, both while I'm away and upon my return home. Reorientation is one of my biggest returns. I like this word because I don't believe that saying “someone is lost” is true. Yes, you might be out of alignment, or you might not be listening to yourself, but you are not lost. Travel gives the immeasurable gift of reorientation. Being reminded of who you are and the things you are passionate about can be immensely valuable, and often leads to a better understanding of who you need to be after the trip is done.
Investments in self can be big or small. I think we've realized that to some extent with our self-care rituals. Going to a yoga class, getting a facial, enjoying a 90-minute massage... all wonderful investments in self with their own levels of return. Travel just tends to be a bigger investment. But in my opinion, it also comes with a greater ROI.
Two crucial steps occur when you decide to go on a Detour on your own. First, you give yourself permission to go on this journey of self-discovery. This step is empowering and signifies the commitment to investing in self.
Secondly, it’s common to have a conversation with your partner or family, seeking their support and understanding. While no one can decide for you, these discussions often involve financial considerations to ensure collective support for your decision. When we're having those conversations, it can be beneficial to look at travel as an investment in self this way!
When I look at examples of ROI for travel (whether it's a solo trip or for any other adventure you decide to partake in), these are the immeasurable benefits I've seen women walk away with, time and again:
Returning a kinder, gentler, and more compassionate person.
Travel, especially solo, often fosters personal growth. When a woman takes time away from her day-to-day to do something for herself, everyone, down to the dog, benefits.
Returning more engaged with your life and relationships.
Taking time for yourself refuels your tank. When you do that, you regain tons of gratitude for the things and people in your life — and you can approach them with renewed enthusiasm.
Having a shifted perspective.
Simply stepping away from the daily schedule of your life shifts your perspective. But experiencing new environments and cultures, too? I Dare you to go on a retreat and not come back with even a slightly reframed perspective.
Gaining clarity on transition points, or where you are in your life.
Detours are particularly attractive when we’re in a transition. Stepping away to consider the things going on in your life and allowing yourself time to focus on something completely different might sound counterintuitive, but it’s actually one of the fastest ways to gain clarity.
Feeling more confident in yourself.
Investing in solo travel allows you to step out of your comfort zone, try new things, and face some challenges. Navigating the streets of a town you’ve never been to or menus in a foreign language? Totally empowering!
Walking away with one or two of these is an incredible return. But I often find that for most women, it is more, if not all of them. So tell me, what do you prioritize as investments in yourself? Are you planning to invest in any of them soon?
