As a child, the glossy pages of National Geographic were more than just a magazine; they were a lifeline to an expansive world that promised endless exploration and self-discovery.
Each issue was a vibrant tapestry of dreams, opening windows to distant landscapes and intimate human narratives far removed from my own everyday reality. This wasn’t just a fleeting fascination; it was a dream that drove me to pursue a degree in photography.
While I may not have become a National Geographic photographer, the essence of that dream lives on, not just in my work behind the lens but also in my journey as an entrepreneur. Much like the inherent need we feel for travel and exploration, this yearning to explore serves as an emotional replenishment, a way to recharge the spirit and ignite the soul.
Traveling isn’t just a fun thing to do; it’s like a school where I learn important life skills and keep getting better at adapting to new situations.
Think of it like having a “growth mindset,” which means believing that you can keep learning and growing. Every trip is a chance to discover more about myself, gain new skills, and look at the world in a different way.
So, traveling is like a never-ending adventure that keeps me excited about life. If you want to learn more about having a “growth mindset,” check out this blog post: Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset: The Impact on Brand Visibility.
Defining Moments through Travel in Entrepreneurship
At 16, I stood atop a Himalayan summit, enveloped in a blizzard that was as wild as it was awe-inspiring. While others hastily retreated, I was magnetically drawn to the moment.
With my film camera, I immortalized that surreal landscape—a single frame where time seemed to stand still, locking in my lifelong passion for capturing the world’s extraordinary beauty.
Years later, destiny struck again as I transitioned from a corporate job in the dot-com world to motherhood. A chance encounter over a Craigslist baby carrier turned into my first photography client. A travel photo from the Himalayan adventure on my mantle caught her eye, and just like that, my entrepreneurial journey began.
A mere travel photo had unknowingly sown the seeds of my future business venture.
Back then, the idea of starting a business and attracting clients seemed like uncharted territory.
Reflecting on this, I’ve discerned that life’s transitions often mask incredible opportunities. Recognizing and grabbing these serendipitous moments can chart transformative paths, even when mired in uncertainty or apprehension.
For entrepreneurs, these experiences and the growth they bring are invaluable. They provide a fresh perspective, resilience, and a treasure trove of inspiration. Every step, every leap, shapes the entrepreneur’s mindset, reminding us that with each journey, there’s potential waiting to be unlocked, a venture waiting to be discovered.
Journey to Self-Discovery
My maiden solo voyage took me far beyond familiar shores—I flew one-way to the United States to pursue my master’s degree at Clarion University in PA.
The ticket wasn’t just a passage to academic growth but my gateway to self-discovery and carving out my American dream.
The surge of excitement I felt boarding that plane was tinged with the thrill of the unknown and the promise of personal transformation.
The excitement of being in a foreign land alone was tinged with a fair share of apprehension; I quickly realized the necessity to adapt, grow, and take on adult responsibilities at a pace I’d never before encountered.
The America I first set foot in was a far cry from the cinematic spectacle of New York City that I’d always envisioned and yearned for. Instead, I found myself in a small town, far removed from skyscrapers and Broadway lights. It would be years before I made it to the Big Apple, but in the meantime, an extraordinary teacher became my guide through America’s intricate cultural fabric.
One particularly eye-opening adventure led us to an Amish community, offering me an intimate glimpse into their unique way of life. This experience was more than educational; it was a form of emotional enrichment, deepening my understanding of America’s diverse tapestry and adding vivid colors to my own personal journey.
For entrepreneurs setting out on their own journeys:
Embrace the unfamiliar.
Each experience, especially in unfamiliar settings, is a lesson in adaptability and growth. Dive deep into the cultures you encounter; they offer unparalleled lessons in resilience, understanding, and innovation.
Use my journey as a testament: every step taken out of your comfort zone can be a step closer to realizing your dreams and broadening your perspectives.
The world is vast, diverse, and waiting to be explored.
Make the most of it.
Expanding Horizons as a Global Traveler
Once bitten by the travel bug, it’s nearly impossible to shake off the wanderlust.
Over the years, I’ve embarked on numerous solo expeditions across the globe. I’m often met with the question, “How can you travel alone, especially as a woman?” My retort is a simple “Why not?”
Each journey has cultivated my growth and consistently nudged me out of my comfort zone. My voyages span from Cuba to Singapore, from Hong Kong to European gems like France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain.
While my sojourn in Cuba began accompanied, a significant portion saw me reveling in solitary escapades. The liberty of traveling alone or breaking away when interests diverge is invigorating, especially as a photographer. The pleasure of immersing in street photography without feeling rushed is unparalleled.
During my time in Cuba, a serendipitous encounter led me to the doorstep of a local family home. As I trailed a woman and her granddaughter through the streets, we eventually reached their residence. There, a man greeted me at the entrance.
Initially, I hesitated, thinking of safety and all, but my gut said, “Go for it!” Inside, it was like stepping into a lively Cuban postcard.
They were so welcoming and let me take photos and then turned the tables, asking me to pose with them. It was as if I was their long-lost celebrity friend! You’ve got to check out those pics on my Instagram; they’re a hoot!
While in Cuba, despite the language barrier, I found ways to communicate using sign language and gestures. It’s incredible how creativity kicks in when you’re out of your comfort zone.
Speaking of which, I faced a real challenge when I lost my iPhone. Imagine navigating a foreign country without your trusty phone! After reporting the loss, I found myself in a local police car and then at the station for what felt like forever. That is a whole story in itself where I was quite terrified, hungry, tired. Looking back, I should have trusted my instincts and skipped making a formal report on the lost phone.
One of the highlights of my trip was the chance to showcase the vibrant images I captured. They were later exhibited in an art-in-residence program as part of a group show titled “Shifting Borders” by The Wild Word. You can catch a glimpse of my work here: [link to the exhibition].
Reflecting on this, my journey was more than just a travel experience. For entrepreneurs, there’s a world of lessons in such adventures. Stepping into unfamiliar territory makes you adaptable, innovative, and resilient – qualities essential for business.
Embracing different cultures widens your network, offers fresh perspectives, and introduces you to potential collaborations. And sometimes, it’s those unforeseen challenges, like my phone debacle, that hone your problem-solving skills, preparing you for the entrepreneurial roller-coaster ahead.
Embrace Personal Evolution Through Travel
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship and independent work, where every moment seems dedicated to chasing goals and meeting deadlines, the concept of travel often takes a backseat.
However, I advocate seeing travel as a potent tool for personal growth. Travel isn’t just about visiting new places; it’s about introspection, rediscovering oneself, and realigning with our core values and aspirations. It’s about pausing, reflecting, and recalibrating our personal and professional paths.
Let my experiences motivate you. Envision a journey where dreams are the signposts, travel is the path, and self-care is the nourishment that rejuvenates you.
This isn’t a luxury—it’s an essential. By embracing this philosophy, you enrich your life, amplify your creativity, and broaden your appreciation for the diverse tapestry of human experiences.
So, as you chart your course in the expansive ocean of life, let dreams guide your sails, travel illuminate your horizons, and self-care anchor your well-being.
Embrace this journey—it’s yours, unique and beautiful.
