As I traveled to Nicaragua, I had the opportunity to learn some valuable lessons that have stayed with me . Here are Six things I learned during my time in Nicaragua that can benefit anyone looking to learn and grow through travel:

1. Shifting perspective can lead to a greater understanding of the world.

Before my trip to Nicaragua, I had a limited understanding of the country and its people. I had heard negative things about the political climate and the struggles faced by the population, but I didn’t fully understand the complexity of the situation. However, as I spent time in Nicaragua and learned more about the history and culture of the country, I began to see things in a different light. I realized that the world is not only bad, but that there are good things happening as well. I learned to trust in the people I met and to see things from their perspective, which helped me to have a greater understanding and appreciation for the world around me.

2. A productive day is not necessarily about checking off items on a to-do list.

Before my trip, I was used to measuring my productivity by the number of tasks I completed in a day. I thought that a productive day was one where I accomplished a lot of things from my list. However, during my time in Nicaragua, I learned that a productive day is not necessarily about checking off items on a to-do list. It’s about overcoming fear, having difficult conversations, going for a walk, or simply taking time to do nothing. These activities may not seem like traditional markers of productivity, but they can have a profound impact on our well-being and help us to feel more fulfilled and satisfied with our lives.

3. Being kind can make a big difference.

While traveling in Nicaragua, I encountered many people who were struggling with difficult circumstances. Some were dealing with poverty, illness, or other challenges that seemed insurmountable. In these situations, I learned the importance of being kind. It may sound cheesy, but a small act of kindness can go a long way in brightening someone’s day and showing them that they are not alone. Moreover, being kind to others can also have a positive impact on our own well-being, as it helps us to connect with others and feel more connected to the world around us.

4.  It’s okay to be different and not like what everyone else seems to like.

During my time in Nicaragua, I met people who were very different from me in terms of their interests, values, and beliefs. At first, I was a bit intimidated by these differences and felt like I needed to conform to fit in. However, as I spent more time with these people, I realized that it’s okay to be different and to not like what everyone else seems to like. In fact, it’s important to embrace our individuality and to give ourselves permission to be ourselves, regardless of what others may think.

5. You can’t run away from yourself, no matter where you go.

As I traveled through Nicaragua, I found myself asking the question, “Am I running away from something?” I wondered if I was seeking escape from my everyday life or trying to avoid facing some difficult problem. However, as I reflected on this question, I realized that you can’t run away from yourself, no matter where you go. Wherever you are, you are still you, and the problems and challenges that you face will still be there. Instead of running away, it’s important to face these challenges head-on and to work through them in order to grow and become stronger.

6. Give yourself permission and don’t wait for the approval or recognition of others

One of the most important lessons I learned while traveling in Nicaragua is that I am the only one who can give myself permission to be myself and to pursue my goals. Too often, we wait for the approval or recognition of others before taking action or making decisions, but this can hold us back from living our best lives.

This lesson was a powerful one for me, and it reminded me that I am the only one who can give myself permission to be myself and to pursue my goals. It’s easy to get caught up in the expectations of others or to worry about what other people will think, but ultimately, it’s important to focus on our own lives and to follow our own paths. By giving ourselves permission to be ourselves and to pursue our goals, we can live more authentic and fulfilling lives.

In conclusion, my trip to Nicaragua taught me some valuable lessons about shifting perspective, redefining productivity, the power of kindness, the importance of being true to oneself, and the realization that you can’t run away from yourself no matter where you go.Additionally, I learned that I am the only one who can give myself permission to be myself and to pursue my goals, and that I shouldn’t wait for the support or recognition of others to do so. These lessons have stayed with me and have helped me to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life. I hope that by sharing my experiences, I can inspire others to embark on their own travels and learn valuable lessons along the way. Which wise lessons would you like to share with me?