This past summer, I took a trip to Asia, visiting Tokyo as well as Malaysia, my mother’s home country. On the 100th floor of a massive commercial skyscraper in Tokyo, I peered out the window overlooking Ginza, a famous shopping district. At that moment, I had a profound, almost eerie realization: there are billions of people in this world, each with their own life, and most of them aren’t thinking about me. That moment shifted something inside of me. It made me realize how small we are in the grand scheme of things, and to focus on growth rather than judgment. That’s when I started to understand how traveling opens up the mind and changes everything.
Traveling Opens up New Perspectives
Traveling is a kaleidoscope for the soul. With each turn, it shows you a different point of view, a discovery of new colors and patterns. Not only does traveling open up the mind, but it can allow you to gain new perspectives on multiple facets of life.
For example, in Asia, family and tradition are at the core of many people’s lives. In fact, to me, they are more important than in any other country I have been to. Family is their rock, and family values tradition. In addition, the younger family members are taught to respect and care for their older family members. This aspect of Asian culture is called filial piety. These family beliefs taught me how new perspectives can be helpful to one’s well-being and encourage gratitude and respect. Their culture forces them to be more grounded in their core beliefs and be grateful for all their blessings, no matter how small.
In Japan, I noticed something that left a lasting impression on me: I recognized how Japanese people carry a mutual respect for minding their own business, which I think is a beautiful thing. When walking on the street, no one bats an eye, even if people are acting strangely. People keep to themselves and stay focused and disciplined, ready to handle whatever adversities the day might bring. Therefore, we should not care about being judged; everyone else is focused on their own lives and aspirations. I learned that one should strive for success and not care if others doubt you.
Traveling Opens up Self-Discovery
Traveling also has a huge positive effect on self-discovery. Traveling broadens horizons by expanding the variety of people that you encounter and meet. You may discover a new passion or something new about yourself while viewing beautiful sunsets in Santorini, Greece, for example. Remember, beauty and nature might just plant seeds of brilliance into your brain, which could lead to change.
Traveling Opens up Your Understanding of the World
Traveling can give you a better understanding of the world. When you travel, you recognize that the world can extend beyond your hometown community. When I was younger, I couldn’t really grasp the importance of traveling; I simply thought it was just for fun. Later, I realized that it can deepen your understanding of the world. Traveling can show how people are unique in their own ways and can have different goals and dreams.
Throughout traveling, you can also understand how much of the world is truly amazing in its own way. Growing up in NYC, I thought it was the best place in the world and that nothing would ever come close. Boy, was I wrong! After visiting countries like Japan, France, Italy, Malaysia, Poland, Estonia, and Morocco, I realized that there is more outside of my hometown. Every country truly is beautiful in its own way and not just when it comes to technology. Moreover, traveling can give you the opportunity to meet bright and talented people with very unique cultures.
Traveling Opens up New Things To Try
Cultural exploration is a core part of traveling the world. It forces you to try new things that you would not have otherwise indulged in. A very simple example of this is trying new foods. The different foods in certain countries show a lot about their culture and what they value. Another example is when I was in Japan, I tried adapting to the streetwear culture by trying out new fashion. Immersing yourself in different cultures can help you step out of your comfort zone. In the US, you are greeted by a handshake; in France, you are greeted with a double cheek kiss.
Traveling Opens up a New Way of Thinking
Traveling also helps shape your way of thinking. You can learn to be more patient by becoming self-aware of your own impatience. Growing up in NYC, I experienced a hectic environment, with everyone rushing around and a sense of anxiety in the air. However, in Ipoh, Malaysia (my mom’s hometown), for example, everything is much more laid-back. The community is extremely warm, welcoming, and tight-knit, almost like a family.
Traveling Opens up Your Social Circle
When traveling abroad, you also have the opportunity to expand your social circle. At home, you may become used to having your own group of friends and not want to meet new people. But if you travel abroad, you could meet all kinds of people who may be different from your friends back home. Who knows, you may even become close friends with them as well!
Traveling has taught me that the world is far more diverse, beautiful, and complex than I ever imagined. In addition, I’ve learned that true growth comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. With every place I visit, I not only discover new cultures but also uncover new pieces of myself. Traveling truly can open up the mind.
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Sources
- Sinead. “How Traveling Makes You More Open-Minded.” Www.worldpackers.com, 4 June 2023, www.worldpackers.com/articles/how-traveling-makes-you-more-open-minded.
