Why I’m Treating Travel as a Life Strategy This Year

Welcome back, travel family!

I pray that you all had a wonderful holiday season and that 2026 is already off to an amazing start. Contrary to popular opinion, I don’t personally do New Year’s resolutions in the literal sense. (Don’t use that judgy face with me. LOL.) However, I do believe in resetting goals, reflecting on lessons learned, and carrying those experiences forward with intention.

Last year, I treated traveling as a goal instead of an experience—at least to the best of my ability when I wasn’t at the people’s job (HA!). I was trying to check the proverbial travel box instead of fully being present in the moment.

This year, I’m choosing to move differently. Instead of chasing destinations just to check them off a list, I’m focusing on experiences that truly matter, enjoying the journey, and leaning into moments that inspire growth and connection. Travel is no longer just a goal—it’s a way to design my life with intention.

I know you’re wondering what this looks like. Does it mean group trips, solo trips, last-minute getaways, or even trips with Mom? (Because she is definitely ready to go! )

Well, without further delay, let’s jump right in. 

1. Stepping out of My Comfort Zone

Last year taught me that the most memorable experiences often happen when I take a step beyond what feels familiar.  In 2026, I’m intentionally saying yes to new adventures—whether that’s trying a new city solo, joining a group trip with people I’ve never met, or even eating locally-sourced chocolate...and yes, I have a strong dislike for chocolate.  I know, I almost frightened you with that personal detail.

My co-worker insists that the chocolate in Ireland is amazing, so I may feel compelled to do my own research for testing purposes only, of course. Auntie is officially entering her "collect memories, not things”era, and who knows? I might even pick up a new hobby along the way… like baking bread. (Dolly quietly shrugs shoulders.)

Growth happens outside your comfort zone, and travel is the perfect teacher: she gives the test first, followed by the lesson. 🤭Ya’ll keep me in prayer because I’m not sure how this is going to go.

2. Traveling with Intention

In previous seasons, I planned trips around availability, price, holidays, and PTO time. And while there’s nothing wrong with that, I’ve learned that how I travel matters just as much as where I go. Traveling with intention means slowing myself down long enough to enjoy where I am and who I’m with —not rushing from one highlight to the next just to say I did it.

One hard life lesson I’ve learned is that wherever you go, you take you with you. That includes your insecurities, your attitude and your habits. This year, I’m choosing trips that allow space for rest, reflection, and meaningful connections.

I’m giving myself permission to travel in ways that feel good—not rushed, not performative, and not rooted in comparison. Because when travel is intentional, it stops being about the itinerary and starts becoming about presence.

Travel with intention —but make it realistic. Auntie needs her rest, good food, and a little room for vibes. I still have bills to pay, LOL.

3. Embracing Flexibility

If travel has taught me anything, it’s that no matter how much you plan, something will shift. Flights get delayed, weather changes plans, and sometimes your energy just isn’t what you thought it would be—and that’s okay. In 2026, I’m learning to hold my plans a little looser than a baby’s grip and my expectations not quite so rigid. 

Embracing flexibility means giving myself permission to pivot without guilt. It’s choosing rest when I need it, adjusting itineraries without stressing, and leaving room for last-minute adventures. Sometimes, it looks like dancing in the rain because I forgot my umbrella at a coffee shop. Some of my favorite memories didn’t come from a schedule—they came from unexpected detours, unplanned conversations, and moments I didn’t see coming.

Flexibility isn’t about being unprepared—it’s about being open to change. When I stop forcing the trip to look a certain way, I create space for it to be exactly what I need. And if that means a slow morning, a canceled plan, or a rainy day when I was supposed to go on a tour? That’s totally fine too. Because at the end of the day, rain or shine, coffee will be consumed—that is a nonnegotiable! 🤣

As I move through 2026, I’m learning that travel isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what matters. Stepping outside my comfort zone, traveling with intention, and embracing flexibility have shifted how I experience the journey.

Auntie is still collecting memories, not things, but she’s also choosing to rest, enjoy good food, hot coffee, and honor responsibilities back home. Because when travel supports your life instead of competing with it, that’s when it truly becomes a strategy—and that’s how I’m moving this year.

So, tell me—how are you approaching travel this year? Are you chasing destinations or designing experiences? Pull up in the comments and let’s talk. 👇🏾

If this spoke to you, consider supporting the journey. Biz3b exists to remind us that travel can be purposeful, accessible, and rooted in community—not just highlights and hashtags. Your support helps keep intentional travel stories flowing—and the coffee hot. ☕Blessings always! ✈️🌍💛(CashApp, Venmo or PayPal donations)