Travel has a remarkable capacity to offer a profound perspective shift, expand one’s world view, and impart counterintuitive lessons. When we venture beyond our familiar surroundings and immerse ourselves in new cultures, landscapes, and experiences, we are confronted with the vast diversity of the world. This exposure fosters empathy, as we come to understand that our way of life is just one of countless possibilities.
Travel encourages us to question assumptions and challenge stereotypes, often revealing the unexpected beauty in the unfamiliar. It teaches us that our preconceived notions may not always hold true, leading to a deeper appreciation for cultural nuances and an acknowledgment of the complexity of the human experience.
In the process, we become more adaptable, open-minded, and appreciative of the rich tapestry of perspectives that make up our global community. Travel, therefore, acts as a potent catalyst for personal growth and enlightenment, reminding us that the world is far more intricate and interconnected than we might have ever imagined.
In a recent video on his channel, renowned author Mark Manson shared some lessons he learned from his vast experience traveling and living around the world. In this article, we will deep dive into those lessons and talk about surprising things people get wrong about the world. I will talk about my experiences which I found reiterated these lessons in my life.
Let’s dive in!
Lesson 1: Everything is a Tradeoff
Cultures and societies worldwide must make tradeoffs when determining which values to uphold. Each culture’s distinct set of values comes at a certain cost. This complex interplay of choices and consequences is woven into the fabric of our societies, shaping our daily lives and perceptions of the world. Every country, every culture, makes a tradeoff in its systems, laws, and societal values.
In the context of India, the country’s rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions have often fostered a strong sense of community and familial bonds. These values have contributed to a close-knit society where family and social connections hold immense importance.
However, this emphasis on collective well-being can sometimes come at the expense of individual autonomy and personal freedom. While the tightly woven social fabric can provide a robust support system, it may also limit the pursuit of individual aspirations and self-expression, potentially creating a sense of societal pressure and conformity.
Furthermore, India’s diverse and pluralistic society celebrates a myriad of languages, religions, and traditions, which enhances its cultural tapestry. Yet, this diversity can also lead to tensions and conflicts arising from differences in beliefs, practices, and identities. The challenge lies in striking a balance between the celebration of this rich diversity and the need for unity and cohesion.
Lesson 2: Happiness is Cheap but Dignity is Expensive
Everyone wants and is chasing happiness. Success will bring happiness, the perfect relationship will make you happy and so will having more money. Yet, when you travel, you discover that people living in impoverished conditions are happier than those who come from affluent backgrounds. This is because we, the humans, are resilient beings with unconquerable spirit. If we so choose, we can find happiness in any situation. But at what cost?
While we can adapt to poverty and hardship without losing a sense of contentment, there is no denying that the struggle is endless. What good is the pursuit of happiness if it comes at the cost of our dignity.We often neglect critical issues such as injustice, inequality and inhumanity that undermine human dignity.
We must adopt a holistic perspective, recognizing that happiness is just one facet of a multifaceted life. It reminds us to be grateful for our privileges and to use them for the betterment of society.
Ultimately, the pursuit of happiness should coexist with a commitment to justice and the well-being of all, creating a balanced and fulfilling life that values both happiness and dignity as essential components of human flourishing.
Lesson 3: Solo Travel is Great for Personal Development
I was 11 years old when I flew internationally for the first time from New Delhi to Boston via Frankfurt all by myself. I still remember the looks on people’s faces when I told them about it. They could not believe that an 11-year-old could do that or how my parents had the courage to put a small child on a 20-hour journey alone. I am proud of myself for doing that even today. I still use that experience to tell myself that I can do anything.
My sister had the same experience when she was 11. She loved it too. To tell you the truth, she has traveled even more than I have at a very young age. Now that makes me super proud of her (ok 90%, the other 10% makes me super jealous). Since then, both of us have gone on to live in Europe alone and traveled extensively during that time.
I can vouch for the fact when you are out and about alone, you are literally stepping out of your comfort zone and you learn a lot about yourself.
Solo travel can have a profound impact on personal development. It offers a unique opportunity for individuals to step out of their comfort zones, develop self-reliance, build confidence, and cultivate resilience. Through solo travel, people confront challenges, navigate unfamiliar environments, and face adversity, all of which contribute to their growth and transformation.
Solo travel is not just about visiting new places but is also a journey of self-discovery. It encourages individuals to embrace authenticity, shed pretenses, and learn from their experiences, even when faced with difficult situations. Ultimately, solo travel is seen as a valuable catalyst for personal growth, instilling valuable life skills that extend beyond the realm of travel and reshape one’s perspective on life’s challenges and opportunities.
Lesson 4: People are Mostly Good
By and large, people are inherently good, despite occasional negative portrayals or unpleasant encounters in various societies. Through travel and human interaction, you will discover that the majority of individuals around the world are genuinely good-hearted, regardless of their beliefs, customs, or ways of life. This realization challenges stereotypes and fosters a more empathetic and nuanced view of the world.
Think about this: whenever you think about any terrorist in an old hollywood film why does that guy always seem to be Russian. Here in India, we have our own go-to stereotypical notions of who the bad guys are and what we should do with them.
I am sure wherever you might be from, you have some preconceived notions about a particular group. That happens when you grow up listening to stories and seeing media portrayals that reinforce such things. We tend to judge people quickly and we are often wrong.
It is crucial that we can differentiate between a country’s systems or governments and the individuals who make up its society. Individuals are not solely defined by the systems they live under but are shaped by a multitude of factors, including history, culture, and individual values.
One of my most important realizations is that my point of view is only one of many and that people don’t often see or do things the same way. Their intentions may be the same but their way of going about things may differ so I need to make allowances and be more patient when dealing with people in general.
By exposing yourself to other cultures, you will also understand significance of effective systems, such as a free-market economy, democracy, a strong legal framework, and individualism, in fostering societal prosperity and social cohesion.
Ultimately, the notion that people are mostly good encourages greater global understanding and cooperation, reminding us that the world is full of good people waiting to be discovered through shared experiences and connections forged with individuals from around the world.
Lesson 5: Some Cultures Produce Better Results than Others
While cultural relativism promotes the idea of respecting all cultures without judgment, it’s essential to strike a balance between open-mindedness and critical assessment when evaluating cultural and systemic differences.
It advocates for a nuanced approach that acknowledges and respects cultural diversity while also recognizing when certain cultural practices or belief systems may lead to adverse outcomes, such as harm or inequality.
Avoiding meaningful discussions about the potential harm or limitations of cultural practices or systems can perpetuate harmful norms and practices, ultimately failing to protect vulnerable individuals within a society.
It underscores the importance of finding this balance in approaching cultural diversity with empathy, recognizing people’s beliefs and practices within their unique contexts, and addressing challenges and inequalities that may arise from certain cultural norms or systems.
Personal experiences and real-world examples further highlight the impact of cultural differences on outcomes and the need to confront uncomfortable truths when necessary. Ultimately, the lesson encourages deeper understanding and thoughtful evaluation of the complexities of our global society.
New Delhi is a cosmopolitan city. People from many different parts of India live here so exposure to diverse cultures has been a privilege for me. When i moved to college, I could notice these cultural differences become even more apparent because I met people who had been living in different parts of the country and all of us were together away from home.
Having traveled extensively in India and visiting 15+ countries, I have been a keen observer of everything that is unique to cultures that are foreign to me. Even though I appreciate and respect the differences between two cultures, I do feel there are practices on both sides that can be reformed for the modern society. There is definitely scope for a critical evaluation of one’s beliefs, where they come from and what purpose they serve, if any, in the world today.
Mark Manson’s Travel Tips
Traveling is more than just moving from one place to another; it’s a transformative experience that has the power to shape our perspectives and enrich our lives. By being out in the world, you expose yourself to unfamiliar circumstances, people and experiences that will help you discover so much about yourself
Mark Manson, a seasoned traveler who has explored the cultures and landscapes of various countries, towards the end of the video shares his invaluable travel tips to make your solo adventure an enriching and memorable one. Here’s a quick rundown now and you can check the detailed article if you like what you read:
- Embrace Solo Travel: Traveling alone promotes self-discovery, independence, and personal growth.
- Go Extended and Grassroots: Longer journeys and grassroots experiences offer a more authentic understanding of a culture.
- Balance Touristy Activities: Mix tourist attractions with local experiences for a well-rounded trip.
- Engage with Locals: Connecting with locals enriches cultural immersion and creates lasting memories.
- Relish the Local Cuisine: Trying local food is a gateway to understanding a culture and connecting with people.
- Read About the Place: Reading about your destination beforehand provides valuable context and enhances your understanding.
- Just Go for It: Don’t wait for the perfect moment; seize the opportunity to travel and embrace spontaneity.
Travel is a transformative experience that can greatly enrich your life. Following Mark’s travel tips can lead to personal growth, cultural understanding, and unforgettable memories. The key takeaway is to seize the opportunity to explore the world, step out of your comfort zone, and make the most of your travel experiences.
I have written separate articles that provide further explanation and insights into the lessons and tips shared by Mark.
- Lesson 1: Everything is a Tradeoff
- Lesson 2: Happiness is Cheap but Dignity is Expensive
- Lesson 3: Solo Travel is Great for Personal Development
- Lesson 4: People are Mostly Good
- Lesson 5: Some Cultures Produce Better Results than Others
- Mark Manson’ Travel Tips
If you are someone who likes to travel or wants to travel but doesn’t do it as often, let this be your sign to get up, get out and explore the world. Your journey outside will unravel many mysteries of the journey within.
To paraphrase an ancient Chinese proverb, let your journey of a thousand miles begin today, you need only take the first step.
See you on the road!