As a working mom, one of the most exciting yet overwhelming things I’ve ever done was pick out a name for my son. It felt like a huge responsibility—this was a decision that would impact his identity for life! In the midst of juggling work, managing household duties, and keeping my little one entertained, finding the perfect name seemed both daunting and exhilarating. I wanted something unique, meaningful, and, in a way, a reflection of the journey we’ve shared as a family. For me, that journey was deeply connected to travel.
While my son’s name didn’t end up being directly inspired by a specific country or city, I can tell you that travel played a big role in my search for the perfect name. Travel opens your mind and heart to so many cultures, languages, and histories, and I wanted to give my son a name that embodied the spirit of exploration. If you’re a mom like me who loves to travel or simply wants to infuse some of that wanderlust into your child’s name, this article is for you. Here are some tips and travel-inspired baby names that are unique, global, and meaningful.
The Power of a Name: A Symbol of Journey
When I think about travel and what it means to me, it’s not just about the places I’ve visited—it’s about the growth, learning, and memories made along the way. My travels have shaped who I am, giving me a broader perspective on life. Each new place has offered me insights into different cultures, languages, and histories. And that’s what I wanted for my son: a name that symbolized a love for the world around him.
From the streets of Paris to the hills of Tuscany, every place I’ve visited had its own beauty, its own vibe. I thought, “Why not bring that global perspective into my child’s name?” When I mentioned this idea to my husband, he loved it. So, we dove into the process, combing through baby name books, asking friends and family, and, of course, researching names from our favorite destinations. What followed was a beautiful journey of discovery.
Time Management and Making Decisions
If you’re anything like me, time is one of your most precious commodities. Between work, childcare, and managing household responsibilities, there’s not always a lot of free time to sit down and make big decisions. But I realized that taking the time to choose a meaningful name was one of the most important things I could do for my son. And while I didn’t have hours upon hours to research, I carved out time when I could—whether it was during my lunch break or while my son napped.
Tip: Time management for busy moms is about finding those little pockets of time throughout your day. If you’re juggling work, home life, and baby naming, don’t feel pressured to do everything at once. Instead, break tasks down into smaller chunks. Research baby names for 15-30 minutes a day, and let the process unfold at a comfortable pace.
I found that compiling a list of names I liked was the most efficient way to narrow down my options. I also asked for suggestions from friends and family, especially those who shared my love for travel. Often, I found that hearing their perspectives gave me new ideas or narrowed my choices further.
The Guilt of Not Doing Enough
As working mothers, we tend to put a lot of pressure on ourselves to “do it all.” There were days when I felt guilty for spending more time researching baby names than playing with my son or working on a project at the office. But what I quickly realized is that these little moments of decision-making, even if they felt small at the time, were important.
Choosing a name is an expression of love, and while it might not seem like a huge task, it’s one of the first gifts we give our children. So, if you find yourself torn between work responsibilities and personal decisions, remember this: it’s okay to take time for yourself. The guilt you feel is normal, but don’t let it stop you from making choices that feel right for you and your family.
Tip: Create space for self-compassion. We are constantly balancing so much, but we’re also doing our best. And that is enough.
Baby Names Inspired by Travel: Global Ideas to Consider
I wanted my son’s name to feel timeless, yet contemporary—something that wouldn’t be too “out there,” but still unique. After hours of research, I compiled a list of global names that struck a chord with me. Here are a few that may inspire you, too!
1. Jasper (English, Dutch, and Persian origin)
Jasper is an old yet stylish name that means “treasurer.” It’s a name that feels rich in history, and I associate it with the timeless beauty of Europe. It also reminds me of my travels to places like Amsterdam, where I fell in love with its artistic heritage.
2. Kai (Hawaiian, Japanese, and Scandinavian origin)
Kai, meaning “sea,” is a name that reflects the calming and adventurous nature of the ocean. Whether you’ve traveled to the Hawaiian Islands or just love the idea of an oceanic connection, this name feels peaceful and grounded. It’s short, sweet, and perfect for a modern child.
3. Luca (Italian origin)
Luca is a name that I first heard while visiting Italy. It was a favorite among the locals, and it felt deeply connected to the beautiful landscapes of Tuscany. The name is simple but has a sophistication to it, making it versatile for a global citizen.
4. Amara (Igbo, Latin, and Greek origin)
Amara is a beautiful, multi-cultural name with a rich meaning in various languages. In Igbo, it means “grace,” while in Latin, it means “bitter,” and in Greek, it means “immortal.” I love how this name holds so much depth, similar to how travel exposes us to different cultures and viewpoints.
5. Santiago (Spanish origin)
A name inspired by the Spanish pilgrimage route, the Camino de Santiago, it carries a deep sense of adventure and spiritual growth. I’ve always loved the way it rolls off the tongue, and it reminds me of my own personal journey of self-discovery.
6. Zara (Arabic origin)
A name that is both timeless and contemporary, Zara means “princess” in Arabic, but also has a modern, cosmopolitan vibe. It also happens to be my name, and it feels connected to the elegance and energy I’ve experienced traveling through cities like Dubai and Marrakech.
Self-Care in the Midst of Decision-Making
Choosing a name for your child, especially if you’re juggling work and family life, can be exhausting. It’s easy to get overwhelmed with options, second-guess yourself, or feel pressured to make the right decision immediately. But it’s important to remember to take care of yourself, too.
One of the most helpful things I did throughout this process was prioritize my mental health. Whether it was taking a walk to clear my mind, doing some yoga, or just curling up with a cup of tea, I made sure I had moments where I could recharge. These breaks not only helped me make clearer decisions but also reminded me that it’s okay to step away and come back later with a fresh perspective.
Tip: Practice self-care by making small moments for yourself. It could be a 10-minute meditation session, a hot bath, or simply taking a walk outside. These moments can do wonders for your mindset.
Work-Life Balance: Keeping It All Together
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my journey as a working mom, it’s that balance is key. It’s so easy to get swept away in the whirlwind of work, family, and personal responsibilities. But the truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all solution to balance. It’s an ongoing process of trial and error.
One thing that helped me during the name-selection process was setting boundaries and prioritizing tasks. I made a conscious effort to separate work from personal life. When I was at work, I focused solely on my job. When I was with my son, I dedicated my time to him without thinking about emails or baby name lists. This mental separation allowed me to recharge and stay present.
Tip: Set boundaries for yourself. Make time for both work and personal life, and respect those boundaries. This creates space for you to give your best to both your career and your family.
Conclusion: You’re Doing Your Best
Choosing a baby name may seem like a small decision in the grand scheme of things, but it’s part of the beautiful, chaotic, and rewarding experience of motherhood. Whether you choose a name inspired by travel or one that holds deep personal significance, remember that there is no right or wrong choice. What matters most is that it reflects the love, care, and dreams you have for your child.
To all the moms out there: You are doing an incredible job. The late nights, the long days, the balancing act—everything you do is important. And while there will always be moments of doubt or guilt, just know that you are doing your best. That’s all anyone can ask for. So, trust your instincts, enjoy the journey, and know that you’re not alone. You’ve got this!
I’m Zara Michell
