5 Things I’ve learned About Life through Hiking

5 Things I’ve learned About Life through Hiking

Beginning this year, one of my goals was to achieve an active, healthier lifestyle. I started my quest by walking to work, which progressed to longer hiking adventures. I typically spend most of my week in an office indoors, so I crave natural sunlight. By deciding to hike outside, I knew I could soak up some of the sun’s vitamin D. These simple choices and new habits allow me to spend less time on my phone and more time reconnecting with myself and doing things that make me happy.

Ten months later, I can say I have achieved my goal of a more active lifestyle through hiking. I would like to share with you, the 5 things I have learned about life through hiking in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle, Washington.

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5 Things I have learned About Life through Hiking

1. Have a Plan and Be Prepared for the Worst

Before a day hike, I always prepare ahead of time. I try to anticipate what I would need in order to have a more enjoyable drama free time up in the mountains. I plan all the logistics, fill up my gas tank, have my itinerary in hand and pack all my essentials including a map the night before. After all, a structured hiking routine cultivates more success.

I also have a plan B in the back of my mind. Most recently, I added bear spray to my collection of hiking essentials. Yes, I hope to not see a bear but I need to prepare for the worst. This can be applied in your day to day life when you anticipate the problems you might face by minimizing them efficiently. By doing so, you will achieve more success in your business life and in the world.

2. Know Your Limit But Also Push Through The Pain

 

 

Those who know me at a deeper level, know that I am continually pushing myself to achieve more and not let fear stop me from pursuing my interests. This year, I chose to turn my fear of heights to a fearless action by going on hiking adventures. That being said, I have learned it’s incredibly important to state and accept my limitations.

When I tell people that I’m afraid of heights, their first comment is usually “Yet you hike,” as if that’s supposed to stop me from doing what I enjoy. But rather, I take the opportunity to push through pain and fear until I overcome them. This comes with the discipline of accepting when and where I need to call it quits. I’ve also learned to trust my legs and my ability to realize how far I can push myself.

So, don’t be afraid to embrace being uncomfortable and make decisions outside your comfort zone. But most importantly, know when to stop or ask for help on a given task or project.

3. Choose the Best Time

I admit I am not a morning person. That being said, I have seen the benefits of starting my hikes as early in the morning as possible. At the end of my hiking season, I started going on two hikes a day and clocked about 16 to 20 miles.

Depending on the sunrise and sunset times, I would usually start hiking 30 minutes after sunrise. If sunrise is at 6 a.m., I would start hiking at 6:30. By starting early, I would eliminate avoidable circumstances such as parking issues, traffic, and hiking at the hottest time of day when it’s crowded.

I would start with the longest and farthest hike. By checking off the hardest hike on my to-do list first, I had more time to adventure and not feel as if I was in a rush. In your day to day life, starting off with the most challenging thing on your to-do list first can be beneficial, as your brain is fresh and ready to tackle the most difficult and challenging task.

4. Determine to Succeed

 

I choose to make time for mini-adventures to fuel my creative side. This has opened up opportunities for me to share special moments with people I care about, while getting a dose of exercise. And for those who live in or have visited Seattle, you know how often it rains here. I used to make all kinds of excuses as to why I can’t exercise or venture outdoors. However, I have found that I tend to exercise longer when I am out in nature than at the gym.

 

So my question to you is, what are your excuses? Is it one of these?
• I don’t have time.
• I don’t have a high-clearance vehicle.
• I am not in great shape or fit.
• It’s too hard.
• I am not ready yet.

Believe me, it’s not too late to push the start button now! With determination, you can do whatever you set your mind to. And when you achieve success, recognize your achievements and celebrate them.

5. Keep on Progressing

When starting out earlier in the season, I thought four miles of hiking at Rattlesnake Ridge was difficult! People would pass me and I would sometimes feel disappointed and even look down on myself for being so slow. I pushed through the pain and now my pace has significantly improved. Now my average hike is no less than eight miles, but 10 miles is even better.

Remember, the aim is progress, not perfection. Own your individuality. Focus on the present moment and make time for self-reflection. Having a great support system that challenges you and calls you out on your BS is not only important but crucial. Include your tribe in your plan and they will help you stay accountable on your journey of progress.

I wish you the very best and am rooting for you to do great things. Go be awesome. And when you get a chance to explore the outdoors, go on a hiking adventure.

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