Over the last few decades, the mental health of the average man has taken something of a turn for the worse. We’re drowning in technology, and our attention has been fragmented as ever before. We’re increasingly single, isolated, and fairly miserable.
It might seem paradoxical, therefore, to suggest that a solution to our problems might come in the form of more isolation. But spending time alone – truly alone, in the company of our thoughts, without the input of a smartphone screen or a set of earbuds – can be immensely beneficial.
We’ve seen this in the rise of mindfulness practice. But the time we devote to ourselves needn’t be so formally-defined. Simply going for a walk, or for a drive, might allow our minds the time they need to decompress.
Your “me time”
Planning a one-day road trip can be quite straightforward. You don’t need to arrange your plans around anyone else’s schedule, which means that, if an opportunity comes up, you can simply get in the car and start driving. Even insurance needn’t be a barrier, since you can now go online and pick up insurance for the day, and drive with peace of mind.
Spending time in the driver’s seat can be hugely therapeutic, especially if the landscape and the road are varied and mentally stimulating. You might get out of the car at the other end feeling exhausted – but that’s because you’ve given your brain a workout!
Improving your skills
Solo travel is a reliable method of personal development. You’ll be forced to contend with other people, and with situations that don’t quite go your way. What if there’s no fuel at the next petrol station? What if you suffer a puncture? What if the hotel you’ve booked turns out to be flooded?
Coping with these uncertainties can be liberating. Once you can do that, you’ll have the mental resilience you need to be happier and less anxious in your day-to-day existence. Your decision-making skills will also get a workout since you’ll be making decisions all the time while you’re on the road – and living with the consequences of those decisions!
You’re the DJ
When you’re on the road, you’ll be able to choose exactly what music you’re listening to. Certain songs naturally lend themselves to this kind of adventure – but since this is your trip, it’ll be you that ultimately decides. It’s worth thinking not just about music, but about audiobooks and podcasts. If you need to unplug, though, it might be better to just drive in silence. If you’re unused to it, it can be a strange, boring, or even terrifying experience – but the mental health benefits more than justify your initial discomfort.
