Stepping out of my comfort zone: My solo trip to Japan

One of my greatest passions is travelling. I love discovering new cultures, hearing stories, and exploring other ways of living. The reality of the last few years has meant that I’ve had little time to indulge in this passion, but this year, I set an intention: to bring more joy into my life, which very much meant that I wanted to start travelling again.

Whilst I have travelled with friends in the past, and met up with others in far-flung places, the shifting dynamics in my life mean that as a single, childless 43-year-old, I have few travel companions.  

I have realised over the years that if I wait for others, I’ll never go anywhere.

So, I made a bold choice: I booked a solo trip to Japan.  

Deciding to go on such an adventure was no small feat. It took courage to step outside of what feels “normal” and embrace this part of my identity. But this trip ended up becoming one of the most beautiful experiences of my life.

I joined a group tour, allowing me the chance to meet like-minded travellers from different parts of the world. Connecting with others reminded me how relationships shape our lives in ways we often overlook. Relationships are, in fact, one of the most powerful forces in our lives. Whether it’s with family, friends, acquaintances, or even the people we meet while travelling, relationships have the potential to inspire or hold us back. As I spent time with these new friends, I felt a deep appreciation for these fleeting yet impactful connections.

This trip was also, at its core, about my relationship with myself. It felt like a manifestation of all the work I’ve done to build an authentic life and let go of self-imposed limitations. I embraced the curiosity and openness I often kept hidden and let myself be fully “me.” I found joy in trying things I’d never considered before, from making sushi and ramen to a karaoke night with strangers. I even stepped into a sumo ring!

Every new experience brought with it a sense of freedom—no judgment, no shame—just a chance to revel in the moment.

Japan gave me a unique sense of peace, one that came from no longer feeling the need to conform. I was free to enjoy and embrace my own unique journey. There’s something liberating about realising that your life can look different from societal expectations and that this is nothing to be ashamed of. I allowed myself to be fully present and accept that my story might look different, but it’s mine to cherish.

As I look back, I feel incredibly grateful for the relationships I built—both with the people I met and, most importantly, with myself. This solo trip gave me a new perspective, reminding me that we are always in a relationship with everything around us: people, nature, culture, and most of all, our own beliefs.

Where to go next? That remains to be seen. But I know one thing—I’ll keep honouring the parts of myself that yearn for adventure, connection, and joy. This trip to Japan was just the beginning.