Hello, Monsters.

As we find ourselves in the season of reflection and future planning, I can’t help but reminisce about the adventures of the past year, many of which involved navigating the world of travel. Despite the occasional struggles with airport security lines and lackluster airplane cuisine, I’ve come to realize that each expedition has played an instrumental role in shaping my leadership journey. And guess what? The travel bug has no intention of leaving my side anytime soon.

If you’ve ever felt the magnetic pull toward dropping everything and embarking on a global escapade, you’re onto something more transformative than mere bucket-list ticking. Traveling transcends the act of accumulating passport stamps and Instagram-worthy snapshots; it has the power to mold you into an exceptional leader.

Join me on this exhilarating expedition as we uncover why embracing the life of a globe-trotter can propel you to rockstar status in the realm of leadership. Let’s fasten our seatbelts and dive into the exhilarating journey ahead.

Many years ago, I embarked on my inaugural international internship in the vibrant landscapes of China. Enthralled by the country’s rich culture, captivating art, and tantalizing cuisine, I was unprepared for the profound impact it would have on my life. My trip to China shattered my preconceived notions of normality, introducing me to a world where the ordinary was delightfully different.

Craving a midday snack? How about a slice of dried pork? Fancy a cake adorned with a surprise tomato, not a cherry? Feel like indulging in some karaoke? You’ll find yourself in a private room serenading the night away. It was in those moments that I realized every corner of the world holds a unique starting point. In both leadership and life, the concept of a “default” approach does not exist. People across the globe operate and think in diverse ways, presenting a host of challenges for us New Age Leaders.

Far too often, I’ve witnessed individuals clinging to an “it’s my way or the highway” mentality without recognizing the limitations of such rigidity. If you ask me, the best way to challenge our own beliefs is through the lens of travel. Here are four compelling reasons why.

Cultivating a Global Mindset

Let’s face it, you can’t survive in a Thai street market or navigate the bustling streets of Paris without mastering the art of adaptability. And guess what? Adaptability is the secret sauce to becoming a stellar leader, especially when you’re managing a motley crew of Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials, and Gen Zers at the workplace. Just like navigating through a foreign land, leading a multigenerational team demands an open mind, a pinch of humor, and a lot of patience. So, thank your travel escapades for giving you those oh-so-important people skills.

Embracing the Unknown

Remember that time you got lost in the labyrinthine alleys of Madrid, desperately trying to communicate with hand gestures and broken Spanish? Well, that’s precisely how leadership feels sometimes. As a leader, you’re often thrown into uncharted territories, facing challenges that make you want to pull your hair out. But here’s the thing – those nerve-wracking travel moments have prepared you for the unexpected twists and turns of the leadership rollercoaster. So, go ahead and thank that Spanish adventure for teaching you how to keep your cool when everything seems to be falling apart.

Creating Connections

Whether it’s bonding with a group of fellow backpackers in a dingy hostel in Budapest or striking up a conversation with a street vendor in Mumbai, your travel escapades have honed your networking skills in ways you never imagined. And in the world of leadership, building meaningful connections is the golden ticket to success. So, the next time you find yourself reminiscing about those travel buddies turned lifelong friends, remember that those heart-to-heart connections have shaped you into the charismatic leader you are today.

Fostering Creativity

Let’s not forget the time you stared in awe at the majestic ruins of Machu Picchu or marveled at the intricate architecture of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Those awe-inspiring moments have fueled your creativity and expanded your horizons, allowing you to think outside the box. As a leader, innovation is your secret weapon, and your travel experiences have armed you with the ability to weave enchanting stories and craft innovative solutions that set you apart from the crowd.

So, my fellow travelers turned leaders, the next time someone scoffs at your insatiable wanderlust, throw them a knowing smile. Because deep down, you know that those crazy travel adventures have molded you into the kickass leader who fearlessly leads a team of diverse individuals towards success. Never forget that travel enriches your soul and your mind with new flavors, new people and new experiences, so remaining curious and open-minded is key to make it work in the New Age of Leadership.

Until next time, keep exploring and leading with that same adventurous spirit!