Self Discovery Doesn’t Come With an Instruction Manual

Control is overrated

The term ‘self discovery’ has definitely been thrown around a lot, especially since COVID. And why wouldn’t it? That period pushed all of us into some form of deep reflection, leading to epiphanies of every shape and size. Mine eventually led me to leave everything familiar and go somewhere new.

Can’t believe I’ve been in Nepal for a month now! Looking back on the number of places I’ve visited and the range of emotions I’ve experienced in this time, it amazes me how time seemed to slow down the moment I decided to let go of the need for full control every step of the way.

I’m someone who typically likes to plan things ahead of time, and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t anxious before this trip. I wondered whether I’d fulfil my checklist of expectations or whether I’d find this experience truly purposeful.

Solo travel self discovery journey in Nepal

I also questioned whether I’d meet other travellers I’d genuinely align with. People often assume I’m an extrovert, but the one’s in my close knit circle know that I’m selectively social. I do get along with everyone just fine, but finding true synergy with new people can really be a hit or miss.

Does every event need to be a synchronicity? Perhaps the real question is how much meaning we assign to the world around us. We can meet moments that thrill us, bore us, unsettle us, or challenge us. But ultimately, the experience belongs to us alone. It becomes positive or negative only through the lens we decide to look through.

My jungle guide at Chitwan, humouring me on ‘potty’ pose as being the most comfortable seating position.

Life beyond the comfort zone

In the spirit of traveling with an open mind and stepping out of my comfort zone, I feel fortunate to have explored Nepal through its diverse arteries. I stayed in villages and cities, in three different ashrams, mountain tea lodges, homestays and a hostel. Each place distinct from the others in terms of comfort and community.

And when it came to meeting people, I connected with complete strangers who ultimately became catalysts in the memories I’ve made and the realisations I’ve had during my time here. We shared raw, unfiltered versions of ourselves with one other, witnessing each other’s highs and lows under the most unexpected circumstances, and all within the shortest span of knowing each other. I’m glad to say we each made a difference in one another’s lives, quietly redefining what human connection can be.