Vacation means something different to everyone. For some it means a week long getaway at a luxurious beach resort. For others, it’s grabbing a backpack and a map, and seeing where they end up. No matter what vacation means to you, there’s one thing that we can all agree on: vacation is a time to leave the everyday behind. So whether you’re treating yourself to a mud bath, or zip lining across through the trees, here are 6 reasons you should try new things on vacation.
1. Get out of your comfort zone
Humans are creatures of habit. We might not admit it, but 90% of us love the security of our 9 to 5. (Whether or not we love the job itself is a different story). It’s safe. It’s familiar. It’s comfortable. Vacation, on the other hand, is not the time for safe, familiar, or comfortable. Why jump from a plane 13,000 feet in the air when you can leave your feet planted safely on the ground? The greatest lessons in life- and the greatest adventures- come from leaving the everyday behind. Without change, we don’t grow. So even if a 13,000 foot leap isn’t what you have in mind for your next vacation, snorkeling, indulging in a new exotic dish, or practicing another language with the locals might be just the thing to get you out of your comfort zone.
2. Experience a new culture
It isn’t every day that we get to experience different cultures around the world, so vacation is the perfect time to soak it all in. Watch a traditional parade, meet a local artist at a street market, or spend the night dancing to the sounds of the island. Wherever you are, get out and see what the world has to offer.
3. Get the perfect shot
When in doubt, do it for the likes. If fear is holding you back from trying new things on vacation, just think of the amazing photos you’ll have to show your family and friends when you get return. Stepping off a 60 foot platform and zipping at 30mph might not be at the top of your bucket list, but your Instagram followers will definitely be impressed.
4. Give yourself a dopamine boost
Need another reason to try new things on vacation? It can be good for your health! Dopamine- one of several “happiness chemicals” in our brains- is closely associated with reward-motivated behavior. So from the rush of flying down a zipline overlooking the ocean, to the excitement of discovering new treasures on a snorkeling adventure, the more we conquer our fears and seek adventure, the happier we’ll be.
5. The Story
Ever been on an awkward first date? When you’ve got that story about the time you went hang gliding in Mexico and ran into a cactus on the way down, there’s no such thing as a dull conversation. Okay, so that’s a little extreme, but you get the idea, right? Even if it’s not a story of death-defying adventure, you’re sure to spice up any conversation with tales of your exciting travels.
6. Increase your confidence
Confidence comes from overcoming challenges, and doing things we didn’t think we could do. Whether you’re overcoming a debilitating fear of heights, or snorkeling next to a 5 foot sting ray, do the thing you’re afraid to do, and watch how your confidence follows.
So the next time you’re contemplating getting a little adventurous on vacation, just remember this list. You only live once, so why not experience what the world has to offer?
