What I Have Learned From the Camino de Santiago

The Camino is more than just a long walk across Spain. It’s a journey of transformation, a test of resilience, and an invitation to step away from the busyness of life and truly listen—to others, to yourself, and to the path beneath your feet.

I didn’t know exactly what I was looking for when I set out on the Camino de Santiago, but I quickly realized that the Camino had lessons to teach me—lessons that extended far beyond the trail. Some were expected, like the importance of perseverance. Others, like the power of vulnerability and connection, took me by surprise.

Lesson #1: The Power of Vulnerability and Connection

One of the most unique aspects of the Camino is that everyone walking it has their own reason for being there. Some seek spiritual growth, others crave adventure, and some are processing grief or change. Despite these differences, the Camino has a way of breaking down walls and opening doors to unexpected, yet deeply meaningful connections.

I met people from all over the world—some for just a few moments, others who became lifelong friends. I found that on the Camino, people are more vulnerable, more open, and more willing to share their stories than they might be in their everyday lives.

Perhaps it’s because walking for hours each day leaves little room for small talk, or because the shared experience of the pilgrimage creates an instant bond. Whatever the reason, I learned that deep, genuine connections come from listening, being present, and allowing yourself to be seen.

This was one of the biggest takeaways I brought home with me. It’s easy to move through life at a surface level, but real relationships—whether with friends, family, or strangers—come from taking the time to truly listen and share.

Lesson #2: You’re More Capable Than You Think

Before stepping foot on the Camino, I wasn’t sure I could actually walk hundreds of miles across Spain. The idea of carrying everything I needed on my back and pushing through exhaustion day after day felt overwhelming.

But as the miles passed, something shifted. My body adapted, my endurance grew, and I found strength I didn’t know I had.

The Camino showed me that we are all far more capable than we give ourselves credit for. The mental barriers we create—whether in hiking, in work, in relationships, or in personal growth—are often just that: mental.

I carried this lesson far beyond the Camino. It gave me the confidence to take on challenges I might have shied away from before. Whether it’s a difficult conversation, a new career step, or any daunting task, the Camino taught me that if you just take the first step, you’ll find a way forward.

Lesson #3: Take Time to Listen to Yourself

In our fast-paced world, it’s rare to have long stretches of uninterrupted time to think. The Camino provides just that.

With every step, I found myself untangling thoughts I hadn’t had time to process before. I reflected on my purpose, my relationships, and the things that truly mattered. The Camino forced me to slow down and listen—not to social media, not to outside expectations, but to my own inner voice.

As I walked, I found clarity in questions I had been wrestling with. I thought about how I could better serve God, my family, my friends, and my community. The answers weren’t always immediate, but the Camino gave me the space to start asking the right questions.

Now, even in the rush of daily life, I try to take moments of stillness—to step away from the distractions and just listen.

Why the Camino is a Journey of Growth

The lessons I learned on the Camino changed how I approach challenges, relationships, and self-reflection. I learned that:

• Connection comes from vulnerability

• We are more capable than we think

• Sometimes, the best thing we can do is slow down and listen

If you’ve ever felt the call to walk the Camino de Santiago, I encourage you to take that step. Whether you’re seeking spiritual growth, personal reflection, or adventure, the Camino has a way of teaching you exactly what you need to learn.

If you have questions about the Camino or want to join one of my guided Camino trips, feel free to reach out. Your journey is waiting!

Reach Out!