Travel: If not now, when?
Making the decision to become a regular traveler is not an easy one. It can be a big commitment and, as such, many people will find it safer to talk themselves out of any concrete plans. The big question to ask yourself is are you ready to follow through?
The best way to start traveling is by simply putting in the effort to turn your dreams into a reality. The next time you feel like getting away from your everyday routine, don’t allow yourself to come up with any excuses as to why you can’t. Form a plan and stick to it; get advice from your family, friends and your Recruiter; embrace a can-do mindset; adjust your expectations according to your budget and be ready to say yes to the exciting opportunities that come your way.
If you’re still looking for reasons to take the plunge, read on to see why you shouldn’t delay booking your next travel assignment any longer.
Money:
One of the biggest issues that holds people back from traveling is the fear of not having enough money. However, you have the benefit of working in traveling healthcare, meaning you can relax knowing you’re being paid more than the average full-time job would, while being offered the perfect excuse to travel the country. It’s also easier than ever these days to save money while you travel, with options such as free walking tours and meetup groups, restaurant vouchers and retail discounts allowing you to fully explore each city on a budget.
Time:
Many wannabe travelers put off leaving home in hopes of there being a ‘right’ time, only to find that – once they take the plunge – they wish they’d left sooner. Ultimately, there will never be a right or wrong time to start travelling, so why not make it now? Working in healthcare, you’ll know better than anyone that life is full of unpredictability, so make the most of the opportunity to travel now and you won’t have to live with any regrets of not seeing more of the country while you could.
Education:
There’s more to travel than simply having fun; it’s educational! By pushing yourself to leave the security of life at home, you’ll be opening yourself up to valuable learning opportunities that will translate into a stronger CV. From improving your independence to decision making skills; flexibility to compassion and social skills, each unique destination you visit will teach you something that will ultimately help make you a better healthcare professional.
New Experiences:
If you never start traveling, then you’ll never open yourself up to those amazing experiences that can only happen when you’re on the road. Travel is one of the best ways to make new friends, colleagues and contacts from all over the world. You’ll also get to try new foods, traditions, perspectives and cultures, especially as no two states are the same. By diversifying and opening your mind to the new and intriguing, you’ll be able to grow as person, becoming more understanding and tolerant, which are invaluable characteristics for a travel nurse.
Challenges:
Sometimes, we can get stuck in a rut in a daily routine that becomes comfortable but unfulfilling. Rather than longing for a change but not making it happen, decide to make today the day to step outside your comfort zone. Travel is one of the best ways to beat those inner demons holding you back, as you’re bound to have to tackle some challenges on the road. Whether it’s living far away from home for the first time, navigating an unfamiliar city or conversing with new people, each time you get over a hurdle, you’ll be filled with a new confidence about your capabilities. Plus, you can feel safe knowing you have a Recruiter available to guide you through these milestones, if you need a helping hand.
Appreciation:
When you’re stuck in the daily grind, it’s easy to lose sight of what you have. Travel will open your eyes to those aspects of your life that you may otherwise have taken for granted, had you never left home. The great news is that you can choose how to balance your home life with travel. You can either return after each 13-week contract or, if you’re still loving life on the road, choose to stay away for longer periods of time. Either way, whether it’s the people, the home comforts or the town itself, once you start travelling, you’ll soon find yourself appreciating what you already have in a new way.