A few weeks ago, I shared a post reflecting on five trips to India this year. I spoke about the privilege of doing meaningful work across borders and the incredible people, projects, and purpose that keep me saying yes.
The response was incredible:
• “So honest, so authentic. Proud of your journey.”
• “Another fantastic program delivered, and how wonderful to explore historic places while working.”
• “India as a country is welcoming and accepting… Best wishes for more such trips.”
• “I’d like you on my team!”
Clearly, the message resonated. It reminded me how often we see the travel but miss the reason behind it.
Earlier in my career, business travel felt glamorous. Far flung locations, business class flights, beautiful hotels and restaurants. Sometimes instead it meant camps on remote mine sites or oil and gas projects, and the in-country flights in tiny planes and dubious helicopters, which was exciting in its own right (although that is another story).
But over time, the shine can fade. The realities of frequent long haul travel can be different if we don’t manage it appropriately. Time away from friends and family. Health impacts. And yes, weight gain from all those lovely restaurants. Sometimes we even lose sight of why the travel was needed in the first place in pursuit of loyalty points and bragging rights.
These days, I travel only when it is absolutely necessary. Virtual work is highly effective and often the best choice. But there are still moments when being in the room matters. Strategic pivots. Major programme kick-offs. Realigning and coaching teams for impactful step changes. That kind of work needs time on the ground, side by side with leadership and delivery teams.
When I do travel, I make sure it is worth it. That means aligning strategy with delivery, building leadership capability, and helping organisations move forward with clarity and confidence. I am prepared, organised and full of purpose and intent. I want to make it count.
It also means making space for connection. Exploring the culture. Understanding the people. Enjoying the food. True context is not just a professional advantage. It is one of the great personal joys of global work and living and working in a global economy.
Of course, there is also a sustainability imperative. The drive toward net zero and the wider conversation around carbon footprint makes us all rethink travel. Not just for cost, but for climate. Purposeful travel, done sparingly but meaningfully, is part of that equation.
This post kicks off a short series I am calling On the Road for a Reason, where I will share the reality behind global advisory work. I will explore the insights, challenges and lessons from working across the world for the last three decades.
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@Strategist Solutions @International Coaching Federation @Project Management Institute @Major Projects Association
