Blog: Travel and happiness
The surprising connection and the science behind the scenes
Written by: Dušan Waldhütter
Did you know that travelling not only brings new experiences, but can significantly improve our overall well-being and have a long-term impact on our happiness, even more than material goods? The inextricable link between travel and happiness is revealed by the findings of scientists at the renowned Cornell University in the USA, which came to my attention recently. Super interesting reading! Especially because I find these same facts confirmed by my own life experiences!
1993, poem by my mother Silva:
“Dušan only schemes,
dreaming of cash,
to take his behind
on a world-class dash …”
This is a verse from a joking poem my mother wrote about her two sons when I was just over 20 years old. It is more than obvious that travelling has always meant a lot to me, and there are plenty of reasons why. Every time I go on a journey, I open myself up to new experiences and cultural differences, which increases my connection to the world and other people. When I reflect back on my travels later, all these special moments that have shaped me and enriched my life come alive. In a new environment, my brain is busy processing new information, which increases my presence in the moment. This mindfulness improves my overall well-being even when the journey is long over. Do you notice this in yourself?
One of the most significant advantages of travelling is that it creates unforgettable memories. My richest moments are a combination of life experiences I have had on the way. These experiences have become part of my identity and shape me today. Last but not least, travelling allows me to escape from the daily routine and brings opportunities for personal growth and self-reflection. For years, I have been discovering new facets of myself and the world through them, which inspires me to reach new goals and awakens in me a new desire to grow in many areas.
TRAVEL AND HAPPINESS VS. MATERIAL GOODS
Professor Thomas Gilovich, a highly respected expert in the field of psychology from Cornell University in the USA, has spent more than 20 years researching the impact of different factors on our happiness. His findings have shown that experiences such as travel are much more effective in creating lasting happiness than purchases of material goods. Our experiences are a bigger part of who we are than the things we own, the professor argues. “You can love your material things. You may even feel that part of your identity is connected to these things, but nevertheless, these things remain separate from you. Conversely, your experiences are truly part of you – we are all the sum of our own experiences,” his research concludes.
The science behind travel is inspiring! Travel is powerful and extremely influential precisely because it combines novelty and experience in a unique way. My trip to Nevada with friends, learning about the American culture and mindset, was an incredibly inspiring experience for me and has also influenced the course of my life decisions.
A chance encounter with a stranger in a Las Vegas laundrette even led me to a spontaneous trip to Western Australia, which, along with learning about the Australian wilderness and the lifestyle of the locals, was one of the most transformative experiences of my life (top photo). It was the third time I had been to Australia, and each time the experience left a lasting mark and inspiring memories. I was confronted with many unfamiliar situations and a different nature, which expanded my horizons. And of course: it stimulated new desires for growth and experience.
WHY TRAVEL MAKES YOU HAPPY
Travel is one of the best ways to increase happiness and well-being. It allows me to experience the world from new perspectives, create unforgettable memories and connect with people from different cultures, resulting in increased empathy and understanding of the world. And, of course, this is not only true for me – a Harvard University study shows that individuals who are most connected to other people are also the healthiest and happiest. Is that not the goal we are all striving for?
Now that I also understand the theory of why travel is important for my sense of happiness, which I have been experiencing for years, I have set myself the goal of using it systematically to improve my well-being. Investing in travel has thus become my investment in long-term happiness and satisfaction. Every time I set out on a journey, I create new memories that will stay with me for a lifetime. That is why I have decided to make travel an integral part of my job in the second half of my life. This is also reinforced by the portal WOOD WE GO – the realisation of a conscious way of being and travelling, which I am creating together with Lili.
What do you think: is it not worth investing in life investments that consistently deliver real returns? If you want to invest in your happiness and satisfaction for the long term, start planning your next journey today. If you do not know where to start and you want to get the most out of your trip, I suggest you start here.