5 ways traveling helps your social skills

Written by Eric Waisman. 

Jaunty.org is an organization which combines social skills training with a gym-like environment.

Hola! Shalom! Hello! After traveling myself and speaking with other travelers, these are some of the top ways I have seen travel help people's social skills.

1. It forces you to talk to new people  

 When you travel you are forced to talk to new people. This can be a great way to meet new friends and learn about different cultures. You can take the things you like in their communication style and make it your own.

As you navigate your way through a new city or country, you will likely need to ask for directions or help with something at some point. It's always interesting to see how people react. Some cultures may be more reserved and some may be very happy to help, and even invite you over for dinner, hello Italy!

This might influence you to be more inviting and open.

2. It helps you see different aspects of communication

In some cultures, such as those in Latin America and Israel, people are very assertive and will often speak loudly - gesturing with their hands.

This can be intimidating for some people, but it is important to remember that this is just their way of communicating. They are not being rude.

If you are respectful and try to communicate back in a similar way, you will likely have a great time getting to know them. You may even  learn to bring out the assertiveness in yourself and bring back a bolder sense of self home! 

You may need to learn how to be more patient when communicating with someone who does not speak your language. You might also be reminded how to be more playful or serious in conversions. Travel can help you learn how to adapt your communication style to different situations, which is a valuable skill to have. 

3. It helps you learn how to read body language and nonverbal cues. 

Since language may be a barrier when you are in a new place, you will need to be able to read body language and nonverbal cues in order to communicate effectively. This forces you to watch facial expressions and body movements a little bit more which we innately are very good at reading. This will re-awaken your attention to body language and vocal tonality. 

4. It helps you learn how to deal with difficult emotions, such as homesickness, anxiety, and depression.

When you travel, you may find yourself in situations that are emotionally challenging. This can be a great opportunity to learn how to deal with difficult emotions.

Travel can help you learn how to be more resilient and adaptable to new and challenging situations. You will reflect on relationships that are important to you - or even toxic to you. The world starts to feel bigger which gives you a sense of abundance and options socially.  

Traveling can also create a stronger sense of internal status and independence which can help with any inhibiting attachment behaviors.  

5. It helps you learn how to be a better listener.

Since you will be talking to a lot of new people, you will need to learn how to be a better listener. This will help you understand what people are saying and build rapport.

You will need to be an active listener and pay attention to their every word. Bringing this back home can be very intoxicating to people in a fast paced world.