It’s no secret that business travel can be exhausting, with extended hours in the air, in airports, and on conference calls. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have a good experience. Indeed, business travelers who fold outdoor activities into their travel plans are more at peace. In addition, business travel is more enjoyable since there’s a way to unwind.
Here are seven reasons why taking an outdoor approach makes business travel enjoyable.
1. It Helps Manage Stress
Even the most experienced business travelers may find trips anxiety-inducing. Going outside may help reduce this anxiety and stress. The beauty of the natural world has a way of calming one’s mind and centering the brain. Likewise, a nice company retreat can help you relax and gain a new perspective on work-related problems.
The great outdoors provides travelers with a connection to nature. Unfortunately, nature is often lacking due to the high-tech urban landscape of most business cities and towns.
So, make a point to seek out nature during your business trips. You’ll find you experience less stress and have a more pleasant time traveling.
2. It Helps Reduce Jet Lag
In an ideal world, you would arrive at your destination with time to spare. You also would have time to change before beginning a meeting or presentation. And yet, delays and other travel hiccups can make this scenario unlikely. Leaving the hotel for a nature walk each morning may help your body adjust more quickly. It also reduces fatigue and helps you feel more alert during business meetings.
You may also read our 7 helpful tips from frequent business travelers for more advice.
3. It’s Good for the Body
When you’re away from the office for a long time, it’s important to maintain a fitness regimen. Exercise does not need to be complicated. Some of the best exercises are easy and convenient. Jogging and walking, for example, are excellent forms of exercise. They burn calories and are easy on the joints. If you don’t have time to go on a hike, a walk downtown is a great way to get outdoors.
4. It Increases Productivity
Time away from home and the office is often associated with a lack of productivity. But you may find your time outside yields major benefits. During this time, you can:
- Brainstorm ideas for projects
- Come up with revolutionary strategies for potential clients
- Get lost in your thoughts while hiking
You might be surprised at what ideas pop into your head.
Outdoor activities can also have a positive impact on your creativity. In the woods, your mind and body can be free to focus on the creative possibilities of your surroundings. Of course, you may not be able to get work done. But you can relax and come up with innovative strategies for your business.
5. It’s Socially Inclusive
You may find that the favorite part of spending time outside is the social aspect. For example, you may enjoy being a part of involving team building activities. So, taking your co-workers or employees on a hike is a great way to build camaraderie. It often strengthens office relationships. The outdoors are a great place to work on communication. Plus, being together in nature often brings out the best in people.
6. It’s Good for Personal Growth
The wilderness can be an excellent teacher. You can learn more about yourself and others when taking a trip into the wild. And while this may seem silly, you understand some of your best lessons in nature. A wilderness trip makes you more in tune with nature and allows you to reflect on what lessons you have learned.
7. It Helps Build Confidence
During business travel, it can be easy to feel like an outsider. However, the wilderness can help make you more confident in your ability. Being able to adapt and overcome challenging situations becomes more common.
During your travels, be willing to try something new. A few activities you may want to try include:
- Rock climbing
- Hiking on a long trail
- Cave exploring
- River rafting
You will find more joy in your business travel experience when you prioritize outdoor activities.
Conclusion
With this in mind, remember that not all outdoor activities suit everyone. Be sure to talk with your boss before you book a wilderness excursion. Both of your interests should align. Additionally, set up any business travel outdoor trips with a reputable group or guide. Doing so will keep you as safe and comfortable as possible.