Thanksgiving is here, and it’s the perfect time to reflect on this past year and all that we have to be grateful for. Personally, I am beyond words to describe how amazing God has been to me—teaching me so many lessons through challenges and allowing me to experience abundance and joy with the ones I love, time and time again. I consider my life a true manifestation of God’s generosity and love—and this year, that included achieving one of my lifelong dreams: building my SMM business.
It’s also the perfect time to reflect on the things that fuel our creativity, spark growth, and bring us gratitude—as business owners and creators of our own paths. For me, one unexpected yet powerful source of all three is travel.
Much like Thanksgiving reminds us to embrace thankfulness and cherish connection, traveling opens the door to new perspectives, inspires creativity, and helps us see the world—and our work—through a lens of appreciation.
As a business owner who loves to travel and has family and friends all over the world, I’ve experienced firsthand the transformative power of travel in shaping how we view life’s challenges and victories. For that reason, I’ve compiled a few insights into why traveling has been my ultimate source of inspiration over the past decade and how it helps me as a creative professional. Let me show you how leaving your comfort zone and exploring the world can bring fresh ideas to your business and a deeper sense of gratitude to your life.
1. Gratitude for New Perspectives
When you travel, you step out of your usual routine and experience the world in a completely new way. I know it might sound a bit cliché, but when you truly immerse yourself in the local culture—embracing the differences, navigating through them, and connecting on a deeper level—you begin to expand your soul. The sights, sounds, and unique cultures you encounter serve as powerful reminders of just how vast and beautifully diverse life truly is.
This Thanksgiving, think about how travel has helped you appreciate the little things:
A warm smile from a stranger in a foreign country.
The unique beauty of a sunrise in an unfamiliar place.
The feeling of connection when sharing a meal with people from a different culture.
These moments of discovery remind us to slow down, embrace curiosity, and see our own lives—and businesses—with fresh eyes.
2. Thankfulness for the Unexpected
During travel, a missed connection or a wrong turn can lead to unexpected treasures: a hidden café, a beautiful side street, or an inspiring conversation. Similarly, Thanksgiving can bring surprises that teach us flexibility and patience (like that turkey that didn’t cook quite right!).
These moments teach resilience and spark creativity. When you learn to adapt, you cultivate a mindset that’s invaluable for your personal and professional growth.
For instance, I’m incredibly grateful for my dad’s visit back in October. Not only did we spend quality time together, but we also managed to take some photos that I could use for my business—a blessing in disguise since I hadn’t had the chance to work with a professional photographer yet. It’s moments like these that remind me to celebrate the unexpected joys life brings. Cheers to the surprises that turn out to be amazing opportunities!
3. Creativity Rooted in Connection
Thanksgiving is all about connection—gathering with loved ones to share stories, laughter, and gratitude. As a Brazilian, the holiday was completely foreign to me at first. After moving to the US almost six years ago, I slowly allowed myself to not just enjoy the delicious food but to truly embrace and understand the deeper meaning behind it all. Over time, Thanksgiving became a special tradition for me, and now I genuinely look forward to celebrating this special moment with my in-laws every year.
Similarly, traveling and adapting to new cultures nourishes your soul, opening you up to meaningful connections and fresh perspectives.
From meeting new people to immersing yourself in different cultures, travel helps you see the world through others’ eyes. These experiences not only expand your worldview but also enhance your storytelling skills and your ability to relate to others—two qualities that are essential for any entrepreneur.
Think of it this way: Just as sharing a Thanksgiving table can spark heartfelt conversations, sharing a travel experience can ignite innovative ideas.
This Thanksgiving, Be Thankful for the Journey
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let’s reflect on the ways travel has enriched our lives and businesses. It reminds us to embrace new perspectives, find gratitude in the unexpected, and connect with others in meaningful ways.
Travel isn’t just an adventure—it’s a lesson in creativity and thankfulness. So, as you plan your next trip, remember: The journey itself is as valuable as the destination.
Tell me in the comments: Where would you travel to spark gratitude and creativity this season?
With love and gratitude for you,
Ingrid from The Lab
