8 Limiting Beliefs That Stop You From Seeing the World (and How to Overcome Them
As we grow older, it’s easy to lose the carefree attitude of our youth as that niggling voice in the back of our minds gets louder. The one that tells us to play it safe, reminds us of our responsibilities, and makes us a slave to routine and familiarity. But once a year, as the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, we’re reminded that time is limited, and the year ahead remains unwritten. What will you make of it?
If you’ve been dreaming of seeing the world but have been held back by that negative voice that tells you it’s a bad idea, it’s time to book a flight. Here, we’ve pinpointed eight arguments against taking a much-deserved vacation — and explained why they shouldn’t stand in your way. Pack your bags — 2017 is going to be full of adventure.
You Can’t Afford It
“Look at your bank account! You’ll never save up enough!”
I’m going to let you in on a secret here. If you can afford a latte from Starbucks, you can afford to travel. In other words, if you have the luxury of a little discretionary income, you have the power to decide how to use it. Saving up for a trip is simply a matter of prioritizing your spending. If you’d rather enjoy that latte at a sidewalk café in Spain, set the money aside with that in mind! Understand that collecting funds for your dream trip requires compromise, but if you really want it, it’s worth it.
It’s Too Dangerous
“You’ll get robbed, sick, hurt!”
Believe it or not, most places in the world aren’t any more dangerous than any major city in the U.S. You should exercise the same common sense while visiting them. Being aware of your surroundings, not flashing your valuables, and avoiding walking alone at night are solid rules for anywhere you might find yourself. Follow them and you’re unlikely to come across any trouble. Also, you can’t go wrong with travel insurance to protect yourself (and your wealth!) from the unexpected.
Your Career Is More Important
“If you leave your job now, you’ll never find another one!”
The truth is that world travel makes you a more educated, independent, and interesting person. Which, in turn, makes you more desirable to prospective employers. You will create contacts from around the globe that you would have never met in your hometown and learn how to be a better communicator and negotiator. Furthermore, your industry probably isn’t going anywhere. Take a hiatus to experience what the world has to offer, and chances are you’ll be able to return to your field afterward. That is, of course, if you still want to!
It’s Irresponsible
“You could put that money toward retirement!”
Look: Money is going to come and go your entire life. You’ll make it, spend it, lose it, and invest it. The thing in your life that’s only going to go? Time. When you’re retired and looking back on your life, you’ll wish you’d spent your brief time on this earth as preciously as you spent your money. Be responsible in preparing for the future, absolutely, but don’t overlook the importance of enjoying the present while you’re at it.
You’ll Miss Too Much
“You’ll be left out of everything that happens back home!”
Traveling to far-off lands isn’t what it used to be. The latest travel and communication apps mean you’re no longer reliant on expensive phone calls and the occasional tattered postcard to keep in touch. With so many social media platforms and international calling apps, it’s easy to stay updated on what’s going on back home and connected with those you miss most. And no matter how long you’re gone, you’ll be surprised when you return by how little has changed.
You Can Travel When You’re Older
“The world isn’t going anywhere. Work now; travel later!”
Traveling is not only physically harder as you age but also logistically. Growing more established in your career, buying a home, and starting a family are all things that won’t make travel impossible, but will certainly make it more complicated than it is when you are young and untethered. Not to mention the fact that you never know where this life may take you. Travel now while you are eager, willing, and able.
It’s Expensive
“Traveling is a luxury for rich people!”
Believe it or not, it costs significantly less to travel in several countries than it does to survive at home in the U.S. You’d be amazed how many places in the world can be enjoyed to the fullest for next to nothing. Depending on conversion rates, some countries not only offer rich cultural experiences but also meals and accommodation for pennies on the dollar. If you are lucky enough to live in a place where the currency is comparatively strong, get out there and take advantage of it! Decide how much you are comfortable spending, and there are plenty of destinations out there to suit you.
You Don’t Have Anyone to Go With
“Wait until someone has the time/money/desire to go with you!”
The most important thing to realize about traveling alone is that you are never actually alone. Visit any popular destination and you’ll meet hundreds of people just like you who are out to explore and have a good time. Stay in hostels to surround yourself with like-minded travelers, or if that’s not your thing, just visit the hostel bars to make friends for the night. You quickly learn on the road that there are pretty well-trodden trails through each region, which means you tend to run into the same people again and again. And there really is no better setting for making new friends than away from home, outside your comfort zone!
What’s your travel resolution? Tell us in the comments below.
Originally published at www.mydomaine.com on December 12, 2016.
