Hey everyone! I hope you’re all doing well. It’s been a week since I got back from my trip, and it was such an amazing experience. God has revealed and shown Himself in many ways in the entire weekend I was there, and I wanted to show you the things I did, in case you are planning a solo trip soon and want to make it more meaningful.
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Spend time in nature
Wherever you’re going, take a couple of hours spending time in nature. I went to a place that’s in front of an ocean, so I spent some time sitting by the shore and just reflecting on the beauty of God’s creation. I was mindful of everything I’m seeing, hearing, smelling… just being engaged in my senses and not being distracted by my phone. When I did this, the more I admired how He has created the world.
So I encourage you, wherever you plan to go, don’t fill your itinerary with all the things that you think “you’re supposed to do” on that area. Take a couple of hours to go to a park, beach, or even spend time just looking at the night sky. Remove the distractions and take the time to enjoy the beauty of God’s creation.
Be intentional in your learning
Solo trips are the time to do the things you probably couldn’t do when you’re in your regular routine. Perhaps you’re so busy with work, home, or family responsibilities that nurturing your mind has taken a back seat. Although I do build in time to read at home and in my usual schedule, I took the time in my solo trip to keep on reading the “monthly curriculum” I made for myself. I am very interested with self-development, faith, and culinary arts, so I chose several books on leadership, nutrition, cooking, and something about apologetics as well. There are some books I have already finished before I took this photo, but I just wanted you to know the power of setting your mind to learn new things.
Try something new
Perhaps you’ve been going to solo trips for a while now, and you’ve probably done the same things like hiking, fishing, going to the mall, concerts, etc. While that may be your comfort zone, I encourage you to try something you’ve never done before! It doesn’t have to be completely wild and out of the box, but it could be something as a little shift on your usual activities.
For example, if you always like to shop in the mall for clothes, maybe visit a unique artisan store instead and grab some souvenirs that are made by the locals. If you enjoy hiking, and then maybe try out another outdoor activity that’s unique to the area, like birdwatching (while hiking).
For this trip, I have always enjoyed trying out new restaurants but I have never tried doing Omakase. I went to the hotel’s Japanese restaurant and tried out their Omakase menu! It was such a pleasant experience and I had a great time trying out new dishes such as squid ink ramen, wagyu tartare, and more. These are experiences I won’t forget easily and I could share with others.
Speak to God
I also used this time to reflect and communicate with God. I prayed in my mind and asked God for vision. And I am living testament of when you call out to Him (sincerely in your heart), He will answer.
I started seeing things, like a butterfly on a balcony of the 5th floor and heard a small voice say “I am here”. And I also witnessed a beach wedding from where I was at, and as the bride walked down the aisle I also heard “You are my bride.” I was so amazed with how strong His presence is when you truly set an intention to seek Him with all your heart.
I watched an online women’s conference (link here if you wanted to watch it too) and I was just so encouraged by the speaker’s faith and how close her relationship is with God, and I was inspired… I had plans to strengthen my work for the Lord when I got back.
I have been given direction on my next steps personally and professionally and all I have been doing is taking those small steps in obedience. Be excited to speak to God and meet Him at the secret place, like how Jesus retreated and communed with God.
I hope this post encourages you to make your solo trips for meaningful! I had such a wonderful experience meeting God in this entire trip and refreshing my mind and body. I am excited for your trip, and I hope you also come back with a full heart ready to fulfill your calling.
Til next time,
Angeline