Work Trip Loading: Carrying Confidence, Snacks, and a Little Growth
A Sunday reflection on how far I’ve come—and how I’m showing up now.
It’s Sunday night and I’m reflecting on the weekend and the week ahead. Today was wash day, which means I spent most of the day doing my hair, deep conditioning, and mentally running through my packing list. Because yep… I’m heading out on a work trip this week.
This isn’t my first conference. I’ve been with my job for almost three years now, I’ve been promoted once, and for the most part—I know what to expect. I’ve reviewed every agenda and mapped out my networking plan. Outfits are lined up. My go-to snacks are packed. I’ve even looked at restaurant menus like I’m preparing for a Michelin tour.
And still… I’m feeling a little wobbly.
When I first started traveling for work, I was terrified.
Like, what-if-I-just-don’t-go level terrified.
I had never traveled alone. I tried to get anyone to come with me. When that didn’t work, I cried the night before and begged my husband to let me skip it. He said, “You’ve got this,” and honestly… I did.
That first trip taught me something I didn’t know I needed to learn: I can do hard things. Even when I’m scared. Even when I don’t feel ready.
So now? Now I prep from a place of care—not panic.
I don’t just throw things in a suitcase and hope for the best. I plan outfits that make me feel good. I pack snacks I know I’ll want when I’m tired and peopled out. I make sure I have a show downloaded for the plane. It’s all intentional. Not because I’m scared anymore, but because I deserve ease.
And if I’ve learned anything from remote work, it’s that ease is something we get to design for ourselves.
This week, I’ll be navigating conference rooms instead of Teams. And while I’ll miss the comfort of working in my PJs, I’m also excited to connect—to show up fully in rooms I’ve worked really hard to be in.
If you’re gearing up for a big week too, I hope you’re giving yourself that same grace. Prep what you can. Breathe through the rest.
I’ll be back Tuesday with more on what it’s like to network as a remote worker who’s finally feeling settled—and maybe even a little proud of the space I’ve carved out for myself.
With love,
Ty 💻✈️