You know that feeling when you get really excited about an idea, but then suddenly it's overcome by this huge overwhelming feeling of fear? I used to think that the fear was there to protect me. I mean, it is our brain's method of protecting us, but once I realized that all that was doing was holding me back and stopping me from becoming the person that I always wanted to be, I decided to face that fear head-on. I wanted to be someone that didn't wait for anyone else to start their dreams and reach their goals. Yet, I had never done anything alone and always found a reason not to. That all changed in July 2021. I decided to book myself a solo trip to the Dolomites despite the feelings of uncertainty about what lay ahead. I knew deep down that it was something I had to do.
There was a lot of planning I had to undergo, and instead of pushing it off til the next morning or giving myself another excuse to set back this goal of mine, I planned out my route, the rental car set up, how I would build a platform for a bed in the back, and where I would buy cookware.
The first few days were tough, I was jetlagged, freshly out of a 4 year relationship and mending a broken heart, and honestly, pretty overwhelmed with life. After a few days, I was finally able to muster up the courage and hit the road on my first-ever solo trip.
As I navigated my way through the Dolomites, I discovered that I was capable of exploring new places on my own, and I didn't need anyone else to hold my hand or rely on. This feeling for me was hugely empowering! I had always felt like I couldn't trust my intuition or do things out of fear of my safety, but also because I felt like I was viewed that way by others. But as my trip progressed, I started to feel like those thoughts I used to have were all dissolving and I truly felt unstoppable.
After 2 months, I finally found my confidence. Not only as a woman but also as a photographer. I had fallen back into my groove as a solo photographer and was surrounded by some of the most beautiful landscapes I had ever seen in my life. This inspired me to share my journey on Instagram because deep down I knew that I could never go back and I began to see how my own journey inspired others to follow in my footsteps. Traveling was the only place where I felt truly at home, so I embraced that feeling. I learned to follow my heart and pursue my passions, no matter if I had someone there with me.
I received hundreds of messages from people that had always felt similarly and just didn't know where to start or how to find the courage to begin traveling on their own. I decided then and there, that I wanted to share this joy and help people jumpstart their journeys.
We have the power to create our own destinies and we can choose to prioritize our own needs and desires and pursue our passions with courage and conviction.
The Dolomites changed my life for the better. It was a decision that I made after putting it off for so long, and it ended up being the most inspiring and rewarding experience of my life. Not only did it push me out of my comfort zone and challenge me in new ways, but it also allowed me to reconnect with myself and my passions.
To anyone out there who's been dreaming of taking a solo trip but is hesitant to take the leap, I say go for it. It may just change your life and inspire you in ways that you never thought possible.