In response to my last post, several people expressed surprise at my ability to pack for an international vacation with only a carry-on suitcase. As a follow-up, I thought I’d share some details about how I pack. Most of my longer trips have been in the summer, and some of these tips apply best to warm-weather travel, but others are useful year-round.
“There is more to life than increasing its speed.”
–Mahatma Gandhi
Rubber stamp available from theartfloozy on Etsy
I’ve been lucky to have had a number of opportunities to travel abroad, starting with a school trip to Europe when I was 15. So far, I’ve traveled to locations in North, Central, and South America; Western Europe; and Australia. There are many, many more places I hope to go. Travel is expensive, but to me, the experiences are well worth making sacrifices in other areas. The world is a big place, full of beauty and adventures waiting to be had. In addition to the obvious, here are a few less expected benefits of traveling.
Caroline wrote to me with the following question:
I struggle with my self-confidence. Do you have any suggestions for building self-esteem? I love your confidence. Do you remember any lessons your parents taught you that helped your self-esteem/confidence?
Thanks for the question, Caroline! First, let me say this: You have just as much right to be on this planet as everyone else. You are a unique, worthy person who has many gifts to give: gifts of perspective, kindness, creativity, and more. We are all works in process, learning and growing as we move through life. Though it may at times seem like others have everything figured out while you’re still struggling to feel comfortable in your own skin, rest assured that everyone has moments of self-doubt.
“Time and health are two precious assets that we don’t recognize and appreciate until they have been depleted.”
-Denis Waitley
