Let’s be real. Planning a group trip sounds cute until it’s you the one in the group chat saying “Hey y’all, just checking in” for the sixth time, wondering why nobody else is reading, replying, or, God forbid… researching.
Now don’t get me wrong. I LOVE a well-thought-out, aesthetically pleasing, group travel experience. I live for the shared memories, the laughs, the matching outfits, the sunset dinners where we all look like vacation baddies or with my boyfriend the dream couple. That’s why I do this. But the planning? Hun… it’s not for the weak.
I am a proud ENFJ-T aka, the “Turbulent Protagonist” personality. Translation? I care deeply. I lead with vision. I’m a natural organizer. I want everyone to win, to feel safe, to feel special, to have the best possible experience. And that’s beautiful. But sometimes… so draining.
The Role No One Asks You to Play But You Do Anyway
If you’re like me, you’re the one creating the Google Docs, reminding folks of payment deadlines, checking passport expiration dates like it’s your job (it’s not). It’s not that I don’t want to help, because that is complete wrong but it is more so I don’t have too many friends that are willing to do something like this so I tend to take it on.
Planning a trip is basically:
- Group logistics manager
- Budget coordinator
- Emotional support baddie
- Certified vibe curator
…all while trying to plan your b-day and make it actually feel like your birthday.
Replanning, Rebudgeting, Re-explaining
The truth is, no matter how well you plan, things change. And when they do? It’s always your job to fix it. Someone can’t come. Someone didn’t realize a passport takes time. Someone didn’t know Aruba was in the Caribbean??? And you’re there, smiling through the stress, because you care.
But I’m learning to stop equating being in control with being in charge of everyone else’s experience.
Here’s What I’m Holding Onto This Time Around:
- Boundaries don’t mean you care less. They mean you respect yourself more.
- It’s okay to say “Hey, I’ve done my part.” And actually mean it.
- It’s okay if it’s not perfect. The trip is about the memories, not the itinerary font.
I Still Love It Though.
Even with all the replanning and repeating myself, I wouldn’t trade the memories for anything. There’s something about sitting on a beach with people you love, hearing laughter drift through the air, looking around and thinking I helped make this happen.
I was born to be “that girl.” The planner. The dreamer. The one who says “Let’s go somewhere.”
Big Girl Time means doing what you love—but not letting it drain you. So to all my fellow ENFJs, group chat leaders, and vacation visionaries: I see you. You’re doing amazing, sweetie.
Now back to finalizing these Aruba outfits.
TTYL
BIG GIRL TIME 
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