As I prepare for my upcoming trips—a reunion with college friends in Florida this weekend and our annual summer hiking adventure in Montana—I can’t help but reflect on the incredible benefits of travel planning.
Anticipating a getaway can boost our happiness and personal growth. The excitement of looking forward to a new adventure is a form of joy.
Imagining the sights, sounds, and experiences of an unfamiliar destination evokes a sense of wonder and escapism from the daily grind. Research shows that this anticipation phase can sometimes elevate our happiness levels even more than the trip itself!
Take my recent 40th high school reunion, for instance. Preparing my presentation on “joy” and reflecting on the people and moments that make me smile was an incredibly fulfilling exercise. Each classmate interpreted the theme differently, offering unique perspectives on life lessons and mindsets. Just anticipating that shared experience brought me immense happiness… and a little bit of healthy anxiety, which was well worth it.
But the benefits of travel planning go beyond mere anticipation. It can also strengthen our social connections and motivate healthy behavior changes. Coordinating details with friends or family, especially those who live far away, keeps us engaged and excited about the upcoming adventure together. For active trips like my Montana hiking plans, the anticipation can inspire us to adopt healthier habits like increased exercise or mindful eating, making the vacation more enjoyable.
So, as you start dreaming about your next getaway, embrace the planning process as a journey. Research destinations, create itineraries, and let your mind wander to the adventures that await. You’ll be preparing for the trip, nurturing your soul’s wanderlust, and reaping the psychological rewards along the way. After all, the joy of travel begins long before you board that plane or hit the open road. It starts with the simple act of planning, a proactive way to improve your mental health, strengthen relationships, and fuel your personal growth.
Two Links Du Jour
In Praise of Anticipation – Psychology Today
Why We All Need to Travel – AdaRose, a woman-owned business that moves employee programming from stress to success
Two Minutes Du Jour 
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