Life Lessons Learned From Traveling Alone

I've always been fascinated by the idea of traveling alone. The thought of exploring new places without anyone else to consider sounds liberating, but also a little scary. So, when I decided to take the plunge and embark on my first solo adventure, I was a mix of nerves and excitement.
I was heading towards a cozy town located the mountains of Colorado. The plan was simple: hike during the day, and write at night. I arrived in the late afternoon, and after checking into my hostel, I set out on the trail. The air was crisp and refreshing, and the views were breathtaking. I felt alive and invigorated.
But as the sun started to set, I realized I had lost track of time. The sky was darkening, and I was still miles away from my hostel. I picked up my pace, trying to ignore the growing sense of unease in my gut.
As I continued along the trail, I began to hear noises. Rustling in the bushes, branches snapping, and the sound of footsteps behind me. I tried to tell myself it was just an animal, but the noises grew louder and more persistent.
Suddenly, a hand reached out from the trees and grabbed me by the arm. My voice echoed through the empty alleyway as I thrashed and writhed in a futile attempt to break free, but the vise-like hold only tightened around my wrist. I turned to face my attacker, heart pounding in my chest.
It was a man, dressed in all black, with a wild look in his eyes. He demanded my wallet and phone, threatening me with a knife. I froze, feeling completely helpless and alone.
But then, something inside me snapped. I realized that I had been preparing for this moment my whole life. I had read books on self-defense, taken classes, and practiced different scenarios in my head. And now, it was time to put my skills to the test.
I took a deep breath and quickly assessed my surroundings. I noticed a large rock nearby, and without hesitation, I grabbed it and swung it at the man's head. He stumbled backward, and I took the opportunity to run as fast as I could.
I didn't stop until I reached the hostel, where I collapsed in a heap on the floor, shaking and crying. But through the tears, I realized something important: I was stronger than I ever knew. And if I could survive that ordeal, I could survive anything.
From that moment on, my solo adventure took on a new meaning. It wasn't just about hiking and writing; it was about pushing myself to my limits and discovering my inner strength. And while the experience was terrifying, it also taught me a valuable lesson: when you travel alone, you are never truly alone. You have the power within you to face whatever comes your way, and to come out on top.