Solo trips have a way of shifting your perspective, even when things don’t go as planned. Last month, I set out for two weeks in Bali, travelling solo without my husband. From the start, the trip was far from smooth.
Just two days before I was set to leave, I realized my passport was too close to expiring—cue a last-minute emergency passport applying and flight rebooking frenzy. Once I finally landed, “Bali Belly” hit me like a freight train. And the luxurious spa retreat I’d been SO excited about? Completely booked for the entirety of my stay.
But here’s the thing: life rarely follows a perfect plan, and often, the moments we least expect hold the greatest lessons.
Rice Paddies in Bali
Between the setbacks were experiences that I’ll never forget. I visited Bali’s famous rice paddies, with their perfectly arranged terraces stretching far into the distance. It was peaceful and unlike anything I’d ever seen.
Morning Markets
I spent time at the local markets, trying tropical fruits and admiring the handmade crafts. It was a great way to see more of Bali’s everyday life and culture.
The Balinese people were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Their kindness made every interaction, no matter how small, feel special.
And the food? Fresh, flavorful, and absolutely delicious—I enjoyed every bite.
Blessing Ceremony
The highlight, though, was a private blessing ceremony with a priest and priestess. The chanting and prayers made it a deeply moving and spiritual experience I’ll carry with me forever.
The Lesson: Life Is More Than the Highs and Lows
Reflecting on this trip, one thing is clear: life is a constant dance between joy and challenge.
From personal setbacks to professional growth, I’ve experienced my share of highs and lows. The unexpected hurdles—whether they felt like failures or frustrations in the moment—always carried lessons that shaped who I am today.
This isn’t unique to me; it’s a universal truth. We all live in this duality, navigating moments of triumph and uncertainty. The beauty of it is that every experience, no matter how uncomfortable, has something to teach us.
Over the years, I’ve come to see this duality not as something to resist but as a natural rhythm of life. The more we embrace it, the stronger our inner resilience becomes.
How This Applies to You
Life’s duality isn’t exclusive to solo trips or far-off places. You might feel it every day:
- You’ve got a thriving career, but you’re overwhelmed by the constant pressure
- Your relationships are fulfilling, but you’re struggling to maintain balance with your own needs
- You’re hitting milestones in life, yet something still feels off, like a missing puzzle piece you can’t quite place.
We’ve all experienced the frustration of things not going to plan—the detours, the hiccups, the unexpected. These moments can feel isolating and exhausting, especially when you’re juggling so much.
Here’s the truth: the pain you feel is not a failure; it’s a reflection of life’s natural rhythm. The good and the challenging will always coexist. But how you navigate them—that’s where transformation happens.
Through my suite of services, I work with clients who are navigating their own dualities. Together, we create a space where you can explore these challenges, reconnect with your inner self, and find clarity. Whether you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply out of sync, these sessions provide a safe, guided path forward.
You don’t have to walk this journey alone. Just like Bali reminded me to embrace the beauty and messiness of life, you, too, can find strength in the unexpected and peace within the chaos.
If you have a desire to walk with me beside you, supporting you, reach out, or look through my services and move towards what calls to you.
