Traveling with Women Friends is Different

Happy International Women’s Day! I find the women in my life to be such a joy. What do you love about the women in your life? Take a moment to text or call someone you are thinking about right now. Be present to what you are feeling right now! Take a small action of appreciation.

I’ve been thinking about friendship a lot lately. Like many people, I’ve felt very disconnected during the first couple of years of COVID. And the feeling has lingered. I realize as a coach, I can change that. Now, if I don’t find myself truly engaged in a conversation, I take responsibility and ask better questions, dig a little deeper, share a little more, and find topics that can be mutually enjoyed. I flirt with the edges of what is socially acceptable. As a result, I am feeling much more fulfilled in my relationships.

I’ve been on two trips this year that put me in the company of women in new ways. I thoroughly enjoyed a trip to Costa Rica with my longtime friend I’ll call Betty. We spent 7 days together and had an amazing time. The second trip was a cruise with a group of people interested in The Fast Metabolism Programs Haylie Pomroy created. I got matched with a roommate I didn’t know who became a dear friend on the cruise. I also met over 40 other women on the cruise. It was a much different experience travelling with women instead of my husband and sons.?

Here’s a quote I love about travel and self-exploration:

"We travel, initially, to lose ourselves, and we travel next to find ourselves."

— Pico Iyer, The Art of Stillness

Here are some things I learned while traveling with women:

• Many women plan their lives around meals — it isn’t an afterthought. Traveling with women has a cadence that starts with food as the foundation and builds the other activities around it.
• Most middle-aged women wake up pretty early. We were often up and about by 7 am.
• Women care about feeling seen. Traveling in a group can bring up feelings about inclusion and exclusion, even in middle age. Guys don’t notice this as much, in my experience.
• Women are happy to share. We shared sunscreen, lipstick, jewelry, dreams, fears, insecurities, and almost everything on these trips. There was talk of boundaries, but most women are incredibly open.
• Feelings about money are incredibly diverse with women. Some have great skills in this area, while others worry and have challenges.?

Here are some things I learned about myself:

• I never felt lonely on these trips. There was deep conversation, laughter, affirmation (“I love that dress!”), and joy for me.?
• I don’t need much alone time when I am traveling. I was shocked by how little time I needed alone. I went on some of the excursions on the cruise by myself, and I missed the others. I like being in the community.
• I like traveling light. After the Costa Rica trip, I bought a new Carry on Closet suitcase and went on the week cruise with only a single bag and a backpack. Sure, I missed a couple of things while I was on the trip (dressy shoes, 2nd swimsuit, a swim cap, and goggles), but nothing I couldn’t buy while I was travelling. And now that I am home, I remember how much lighter it felt to just have my carry on, and I loved not waiting for a checked bag.
• After 4 trips in 2 months, I also like to be home. I learned there is a balance to how much I want to travel. In the past, I always thought the answer to How much do you want to travel was “more!” After several trips in a row, I realize I’ve had my fill of travel for a while and am happy to be home right now.

I’m curious about you. What are you thinking about travel and friendship? Is there anything you want to change about your own experiences with either of these? What is your first step? Feel free to send a reply to [email protected] or comment and share your thoughts. Your intention to change is the first step.

Featured Podcast

As we celebrate International Women's Day, I'm excited to share a podcast episode of The Experimental Leader that resonates deeply with women's experience. It's not just about leadership; it's about empowerment, growth, and embracing our unique perspectives as women. Created by a woman entrepreneur serving predominantly female clientele, this podcast offers insights and stories that speak directly to us as women navigating the complexities of leadership and life.

I really enjoyed connecting with our guest, so much so that I couldn't resist sharing the experience through a spontaneous Facebook Live session upon receiving her package. Dive into the podcast first, then catch the video to enrich your journey. Join me in an enchanting exploration alongside Katie Hess, the brilliant mind driving Lotuswei forward. Together, we'll unravel the transformative potential of flowers as Katie, renowned as both a flower alchemist and the author of Flower Evolution, guides us through the world of floral remedies. Prepare to immerse yourself in the wisdom cultivated by one of the globe's foremost floral apothecaries and embrace the revitalizing essence of spring's resplendent blooms. This podcast guarantees an insightful and inspiring voyage, meticulously crafted with fervor and authenticity by yours truly.

This excerpt from "The Experimental Leader" captures the essence of navigating obstacles with resilience and adaptability—qualities we celebrate during International Women's Day. I believe it embodies the spirit of empowerment and growth, especially pertinent during this special time dedicated to honoring the achievements and resilience of women everywhere. International Women’s Day is a great day to order a book (maybe this one?) written by a woman. Take the time after you read it to review it. As women authors, this lifts us up.

I’m so proud of this leadership program that helps change leaders’ path. People who have taken it have gotten promotions and new jobs but most of all people have noticed they have changed as leaders. Let me know if you want to talk about how it can change your leadership path.

I'm excited about our Leadership Essentials Program, known for its transformative impact on new leaders. From uncertainty to confidence, it's incredible to see the change. Ready to elevate your leadership? Let's schedule a chat to explore how it could benefit you!

"I see my path, but I don’t know where it leads. Not knowing where I’m going is what inspires me to travel it."

— Rosalía De Castro

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