For some, traveling for business can be a thrilling escape from the normal routine. For others, it may be stressful. You shouldn’t avoid corporate travel when you feel worrisome emotions creeping in. Instead, work with your corporate travel manager to see how you can make traveling a more enjoyable, productive venture.
Ways to Improve Business Travel and Mental Health
Business travel can impact your mental health in many ways and travel advisors can help make your trip a more comfortable experience for you. Below are a few ways you–and your travel team–can work together to create a smoother travel and mental health experience.
1. Think Creatively
Thinking outside of the box isn’t just for those in artistic careers anymore. Entrepreneurs and business people also may benefit from thinking creatively–especially when it comes to travel. The Columbia Business School states when you allow your body to relax when traveling, your mind is more open and engaged. New environments often influence your mindset, making way for a “creativity boost” when you fully engross yourself in a new place.
Of course, letting go isn’t easy for everyone. This is when your travel advisor can be of service! They can think creatively with you to find ways to help lessen any stress you may have when it comes to traveling for business. Together, you can work on finding relatable, comfortable ways to relax during your trip.
You can also use more personal coping methods, like putting together a playlist that will soothe your nerves. Try outlining realistic personal goals for each part of the trip.
2. Ask for Support
This may be one of the toughest parts when facing mental health and travel struggles. Working adults often feel as if they shouldn’t ask for help when faced with difficult situations. However, when it comes to your mental health, asking for support is critical. Travel can be an enjoyable, relaxing experience. If that isn’t always the case for you, asking your travel team for support should be your priority.
Your travel advisor can work with you to ensure your business trip is comfortable and relaxing for you. They can work to get you in first class on a flight or business class on a train if that will ease any stress. They can find you comforting hotel amenities so you can feel completely refreshed during your business trip.
3. Prepare Yourself
Whether you are traveling for leisure or business, being prepared for everything–especially the unexpected–is beneficial. When you’ve planned and organized as much as you can before a trip, your mental state can take a tiny breath of relief. That little relief can be what turns a stressful situation into a more enjoyable one.
Traveling and facing some mental health struggles can also be helped by planning alongside your travel managers. Your team can work with you to make sure every element of your business trip is as organized as possible. A travel advisor can help with any bookings–flights or hotel reservations–as well as keep you posted with any changes that occur. When you feel prepared–and supported–for the business trip ahead, your mental state benefits.
