Life often nudges us out of our comfort zones to teach us lessons we didn’t know we needed. Over the last six weeks, I stepped away from my usual routines, traveling, observing and reflecting as I navigated a strange yet familiar void in life. This journey became a mirror, showing me not only the world around me but also the world within me.
The Journey
I met people from all walks of life - some planned encounters, others serendipitous. Each person carried a story, and as I listened, I realized how deeply interconnected we all are. One thing stood out when I asked them how 2024 had been for them: most said it wasn’t a good year. It struck me how universal this sentiment was, especially when we all hoped life would improve after the challenges of COVID.
Yet, in the midst of this collective heaviness, I found myself uncovering pockets of joy.
Living minimally, without the luxuries I’m used to, surprised me. I didn’t need everything to be perfect or meticulously planned to feel content. We often delay happiness until we’ve checked every box, but I’ve learned that joy can be found in the simplest of moments.
A quote I came across summed it up beautifully: “Not every day is good, but there is something good in every day - even if it’s small.”
Lessons Learned
Slowing down gave me the space to feel deeply and see myself more clearly.
I embraced uncertainty instead of resisting it. Some of the best moments of this journey weren’t captured on camera, and I’m glad they weren’t.
Living without makeup, letting go of perfectionism, and going with the flow taught me that I am still loved and cherished by those who matter most.
One of the highlights was cooking for my loved ones - something I did with all my heart.
It felt so fulfilling to share meals and spend time with them without the limits of time or energy.
I also embraced impromptu adventures, moments that were unplanned but brimming with joy. These experiences reminded me that abundance isn’t about how much you have but how deeply you connect with life and the people around you.
Even though I was traveling (I still am for a little bit), I was still able to focus on my work and support my clients. Knowing I could continue to make a difference while enjoying the freedom to work from anywhere was deeply rewarding.
It reminded me how much I value the balance between purpose and flexibility in my life.
Sometimes in life it’s okay to not know what you want but important to understand yourself & recognise what you definitely don’t want.
I shifted my focus from online connections to real-life conversations. Despite the simplicity of it all, this phase felt like one of the most abundant times of my life. I felt complete—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. For the first time, I didn’t want anything more. Anything that comes after this feels like a bonus.
Closing Thought
This journey showed me that you don’t need everything to feel like life is enough.
Contentment comes from slowing down, appreciating the small joys, and connecting with what truly matters.
Start where you are, with what you have, and let that be enough for today. Sometimes, the simplest things - a shared meal, an unplanned adventure, or a heartfelt conversation - are the ones that bring us the greatest joy.
Instead of moving from one self-development activity to the next mindlessly and consuming content without integrating it into our lives, it’s time to stop, reflect, make adjustments, and redefine your goals and values. If you find yourself running from one self-improvement activity to another, pause for a moment to uncover the reason behind it.
Through this journey, I’ve learned to find joy in life’s simplest moments, but that doesn’t mean letting go of ambition.
Each of us has a unique purpose, which is why we’re here on this earth.
Follow what excites you, and your purpose will unfold naturally.
By reflecting and realigning, you create space for meaningful growth rather than chasing endless distractions.
A life altering solo trip this is and I'm glad I took it.
Much love,
Savvi
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