I’ve always been the kind of person that puts other people’s needs ahead of mine. I will cancel a trip to my favorite destination because my best friend thinks we’d enjoy a different place more. And I’ll go out of my way to ensure other people are comfortable even when I’m not. So one day, I decided to have some me-time. I went on a solo cruise trip, and I have to say I wasn’t ready for the amazing lessons that I learned.
It all started on one Monday evening. I had spent the entire weekend, helping one of my friends move and forgot all about my school assignments. The deadline was in one day, and there was no way I was going to complete the task at hand successfully. So I decided to pay for custom writing services – something I had made a habit because my priorities were misplaced. And the guilt was killing me.
I started thinking of ways I could start prioritizing myself and school work more. I scoured the internet for tips and came across several bloggers that suggested going on a solo trip or somewhere you can be alone to quiet your mind and figure out which changes you’d like to make. I immediately knew what kind of trip I would enjoy most – a Caribbean cruise. I had the connections, and scoring one at an affordable price would be a piece of cake. Here’s what I learned.
Trying New Things Is Fun
Before my trip, I was very anxious. I was worried I wouldn’t have fun without my friends around, and I was scared I wouldn’t enjoy being on a cruise ship because it was my first time. But the entire experience was mind-blowing. The mere sight of the cruise ship sent chills down my spine.
We also had an experienced cruise traveler that showed us different amazing sites that made me appreciate the Caribbean even more. Not to mention, I had to get out of my comfort zone and speak to strangers, something I wouldn’t do in the company of friends. And I left the cruise with new friends.
You Should Enjoy Your Own Company
While on the cruise trip, I also became aware of the fact that I was probably spending too much time with my friends because I was afraid to be on my own. But on the trip, I had no one else to hide behind. I had to figure out what I was going to do on the trip, go places on my own, and most importantly, I didn’t have to ask for someone’s opinion when I wanted to try something new or engage in an activity. And it was so much fun!
Self-Care Should Be a Priority
I always felt guilty when I took some time to have fun on my own or simply be by myself. But during my cruise trip, I learned the importance of self-care. I had no one else to worry about except myself, and I was more aware of what I was feeling. Not to mention, I was able to relax and think about my future and myself, which was a challenge for me because I was always up to something and never had me-time.
Travel Is Worth Every Dime
Before my cruise trip, I loved traveling, but I believed I could only do it if I had a lot of money to spare. But the experience was something money can’t buy because:
- I was at my happiest
- I had no care in the world, and
- I met incredible people who have become almost family.
What’s more, I have unforgettable memories of the Caribbean I will cherish and hopefully share with my grandchildren one day. These are things I would never have gained if I kept on with the cycle of life I was in.
These days, I not only put myself and my needs first but am also more aware of the days when I am running on an empty cup trying to fill others. I am also more intentional about traveling more. I’ve mastered tips on traveling on a budget, and I can now comfortably visit my favorite destinations without breaking the bank. I also cherish my friends more because I know how to balance me-time, work, family, and friends. And this all happened because I decided to go on a cruise. That’s what traveling does! Make it a priority in your life.
