How to Prevent Burnout While Traveling

Travel burnout may occur when you try to do too much in too little time and don't give yourself an opportunity to reflect on your experiences along the way.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Journal

1. Set one or more personal development goals that you would like to work on during your trip, such as learning new words in a foreign language or spending more time alone. Challenging yourself in a particular way will give your trip a focus and meaning that transcends the highs and lows of day-to-day travel.

2. Limit the number of countries or locations you plan to visit, and budget enough time for both relaxation and activity in each place.

3. Resist the temptation to conform to others' expectations of what you should be doing on your trip. If you find that your passion in Paris is people-watching in a park and not museum-hopping, don't chase after another's vision of the ideal trip.

4. Create daily rituals for yourself that are nurturing and rejuvenating, such as morning walks, afternoon tea or journal-writing in cafes.

5. Check in with yourself and others about how the trip has been going: What have been the highs and the lows, and what do you want to do differently? Processing your experiences as you go will help make your trip more meaningful and give you time to readjust your plans if new needs arise.

6. Take a break when you need it, even if it means missing "must-see" sights. Taking a much-needed nap, stroll, or solo time in a cafe will rejuvenate you for your next outing and keep you positive in your travels.

7. Re-evaluate your itinerary and budget periodically to make sure they are still practical and inspiring. Stay flexible about the possibility that your interests and needs may change as you change during your trip.

on 11/22/2005 Try not to watch too much TV, which can be easy sitting in a hotel room every night. Hop in the car and hit a mall, or check out a local library. Check with a visitor's center to see what local attractions are easily accessible from your hotel. Always use caution and common sense when in big cities and have maps handy.

Keeping busy will make business trips seem shorter and you'll remain sane.