Holiday Phobia

Craving sunnier climates but fear is getting in my way

I do travel and when I'm there I love it !

Dear Friend

How are you today?

Is the sun shining in your corner of the world, if it is, please send it my way. I promised I wouldn’t mention the weather this week - oops! But I am dreaming of sunnier climates as my partner would like to whisk me away for my 50th birthday. The trouble is I suffer with holiday phobia.

I’ve always wanted to visit Santorini, somewhere quiet, with an aqua marine ocean, white washed cottages, cute restaurants by the sea and everything within walking distance. I crave sunshine and a hotel far far away from the maddening crowds, a place where I can read, write and relax. After speaking to a couple of travel experts who have been really supportive, I still feel a tad overwhelmed. The truth is, I feel a little numb about what should be an exciting adventure and a well deserved break away from my day to day work.

My partner thinks I’d enjoy Thailand, which I probably would, even though it’s quite a distance to travel to for a 10 day trip. Have you ever been to Thailand? If so, would you be so kind and recommend a few places that I might like? We plan to go this September, so ideally I need to get my skates on and make a decision.

What about you, have you ever found yourself caught in a whirlwind of indecision when it comes to planning a holiday?  Do thoughts of travel fill you with anxiety rather than excitement? If so, you’re not alone.  As someone who has grappled with holiday phobia firsthand, I understand the complex emotions and uncertainties that can accompany the prospect of taking time off to relax and recharge.

For me the idea of planning a holiday has always been fraught with uncertainty and apprehension.  Maybe it’s because I work in the events and hospitality industry. I guess the fact I’m fine tuning retreats on a daily basis has primed me to have huge expectations from what I’d expect from a top notch hotel.

Plus the thought of stepping away from my routine and venturing into the unknown triggers a cascade of anxious thoughts and what-ifs.  Such as, will I choose the right destination? What if something goes wrong? What if I don’t like the venue or resort?  These questions swirl in my mind, casting a shadow over what should be a joyful and rejuvenating experience.

But here’s the thing I refuse to let my holiday phobia hold be back from experiencing the joys of travel and exploration.  Instead I’ve made it my mission this month to unravel the tangled web of emotions and beliefs that underlie this fear, using journaling, of course, as a powerful tool for self discovery and healing.  

If you’re nodding along, feeling the weight of  holiday phobia on your shoulders, care to join me for some therapeutic journaling?  Together for just 10 minutes, we can navigate the complexities of this fear, uncovering its roots and charting a path towards greater ease and enjoyment in the realm of travel.

So grab your journal. I’ve curated a few therapeutic journaling prompts around this topic, because I’m so ready to unpack the baggage of my holiday phobia…

1.  Reflect on your earliest memories of holidays.  What emotions arise when you think about these experiences?

2. Describe your typical thought process when considering the idea of going on holiday.  What fears or concerns surface?

3.  Imagine yourself fully immersed in a relaxing holiday experience.  What sights, sounds and sensations do you envision?  How does it feel to embrace this sense of relaxation and adventure?

Don’t forget to send me any holiday destinations, fit for a 50 year old retreats expert with high expectations. To be honest, I’d be happy with a little airbnb on the beach, with a seat swing and a cute restaurant further down the beach. Answers on a postcard please.

Until the next time

Take care and stay safe xx

In other news… here are a couple of the retreats I’ll be hosting in collaboration with talented creatives and writers…

“Creative Unblocking Weekend Retreat” with ease & Emma Gannon - only 2 bedrooms left available.  16th-18th November 2024

“Doing Hard Things” with ease & Stacey Heale - only 1 space available. There is a bursary place being awarded to one lucky guest, application available upon request.