So many different types of adventure await, depending on what you’re looking to get out of your experience. What will your next adventure entail? Maybe it’s a bucket list item that you’ve been telling yourself you’ll do one day? Maybe it’s something that you couldn’t do with your ex and now’s the time to re-stoke your love for that thing? Do you want to feel different or travel somewhere that might help you rediscover your old self?
I had an adventure earlier this year that checked many of my boxes for adventure. I went on my first yoga retreat and loved it. My goals were to check out a different part of the country and to invest in a restful weekend before the start of what was to be a crazy summer. And it provided on so many different levels.
From the physical challenge of yoga to the mental challenge of meditation, I was pushed out of my comfort zone. And then I was able to meet a like-minded group of women, clicking with a few of them especially and having meals together filled with laughs. It was really the best of all things – time to myself, time to be still, time to be with others and all of it in a new place that I had never been.
Before planning your next getaway, take some time to ask yourself a few questions. There’s so much you can get out of an adventure if you put thought into it ahead of time.
What to consider before your next adventure…
Do you want to challenge yourself physically and mentally? Adventures push us out of our comfort zone by their very nature so if your goal is discomfort and growth, definitely choose something that is physically and mentally challenging. You might be wrecked when you get home but you will feel like you accomplished something. These are the kind of adventures that might involve a lot of gear and logistical planning. Leave that to someone else and instead, immerse yourself in the difficult nature of your activity.
Do you want to meet new people? Adventuring together is an excellent way of connecting and making new friends. Whether it’s a new hobby or something you’ve been doing for years, experiencing it with others can bring you a whole different perspective on things. Nothing brings strangers together like a summit attempt, a race finish or a long hike. Group tours make the organization easy and by simply engaging in your favorite activity, you’ll have the opportunity to meet like-minded pals.
Do you want to try something new or travel somewhere you’ve never been? Fear of the unknown can hold us back especially as women who are seeking travel adventures. If you’re looking for the exotic or somewhere off the beaten path, there are adventures designed just for you. You can find ones with eco-friendly options, as well as those that are women-only. Be honest with yourself about your comfort levels and then jump into some (safe and well-planned) fun.
Do you want to get still and spend some quiet time with yourself? There’s never been a better time to explore a retreat, a spa or any of the other wellness centers that are available. A much different experience but one in which you’ll come back feeling refreshed and revived. Meditation retreats allow you to go inward, while still providing time for connection with others, should you want some of that.
How much money do you want to spend? Don’t forget to keep your budget in mind. You can find an adventure for every income bracket and many options have local variants that can scratch that itch for something new without going into debt for it. Consider mini-getaways or smaller trips that allow you to do something new without committing to a huge extravagant vacation.
So let’s hear about the next adventure you’re planning! And if you’re still unsure about what you want to do, try journaling on any of the questions above and see what comes up for you.
