How Travel Transformed My Life & Perspective

I used to think I understood the world. But when I started traveling, I realized just how small my perspective was and how much I had yet to learn—not just about others, but about myself. Each trip revealed a little more of the incredible diversity of human life and how belief systems, shaped by unique circumstances, influence the way people live. Travel didn’t just teach me about the world; it taught me to let go of judgment and embrace the unknown. That shift in perspective reduced my stress, made me happier, and freed me from the burden of worrying about others’ choices or motives—things I may never fully understand.

But getting to know the world better didn’t happen just because I started visiting new places. It’s possible to travel and still miss the magic, staying in familiar comfort zones, eating at chain restaurants (no shame on the chain game!), and visiting only the most popular tourist hotspots. I quickly realized that true growth comes from immersion. When I pushed myself to try local foods, learn traditions, and explore beyond the guidebook, I discovered that "different" doesn’t mean scary—it often means extraordinary. Immersing myself in the culture of a new place connected me more deeply to its people, their way of life, and their unique stories.

You might wonder why this kind of growth even matters. For me, it’s about opening myself to the richest experiences life has to offer. If we want to live fully and make the most of this one life, we need to embrace change and let curiosity lead us. It’s not just about traveling to see new destinations; it’s about growing, connecting, and gaining a broader understanding of humanity.

When I started traveling, I leaned on suggestions from friends and well-traveled acquaintances. I made a list of experiences that seemed fun but weren’t so foreign that I’d avoid them. Each time I stepped outside my comfort zone, I gained reassurance that "different" can be so good. I became more confident in handling unfamiliar situations and realized how much growth was still possible for me, even as an adult. I never imagined that travel would play such a key role in helping me become a confident, assertive woman.

Travel didn’t just show me the world—it showed me my own strength. It gave me the tools to embrace differences, let go of judgment, and live a fuller, richer life. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to grow beyond your comfort zone, I encourage you to take that leap. The world—and your own potential—might just surprise you.

For me, travel is more than a hobby—it’s a way of life. It’s my chance to escape the routines that limit me, explore the wonders of the world, and truly exist in a space of growth, understanding, and connection. That’s why my motto has become escape, explore, exist. These three words remind me that life is not about staying in one place or living the same story; it’s about creating new chapters, discovering new perspectives, and embracing the fullness of the journey.

Here's to the journey, wherever it may lead.

Cheers, Emily