I spent a year backpacking around the world by myself. Struggling with loneliness taught me lessons I didn't expect.

In my year of solo travel, I found my happiest moments were spent with others. Michelle Polizzi I spent a year on a solo backpacking trip in my 20s. I hoped I'd find personal growth. The loneliness was harder to deal with than I anticipated, but I met great people along the way. Later, I realized just how much value sharing experiences with others can add to my life. At 25, I was ready for a change. I'd reevaluated my relationship with alcohol, a shift that meant I was no longer interested...