Living in the Pyrenees, we walk in the mountains most weekends. Yesterday’s hike was challenging, there was snow, there were steep climbs and rocky ledges to clamber up. The clouds came in just in time to obscure the views from the summit of our climb. But, for all of that, it was exhilarating. Along the way, it occurred to me how so many of the lessons I learn while hiking apply to my business and may be helpful for my clients. So, here’s what came to me yesterday…
When the going gets tough, keep putting one foot in front of the other. Keep a steady pace and don’t push too hard. Stop to catch your breath as often as you need to.
Don’t think too far ahead or the scale of the journey may overwhelm you. Break down what you want to achieve into chunks.
Sometimes the time won’t be right to reach your destination. So, you’ll turn back, and then another opportunity may present itself. It may not be what you planned but see it for the success it is.
Sometimes the path will be blocked. Stop, take stock, find an alternative way round. But remember scrabbling up through the snow may just turn out to be fun.
There may be bears in them there mountains, but it’s highly unlikely that they’ll bother you. Stay vigilant, assess risk, keep going and don’t be put off by the scaremongers.
Sometimes the clouds roll in and you lose your bearings. Stop, don’t panic, take your time to get a sense of where you want to go and move slowly, keeping an eye on your progress.
You may think you don’t have what it takes to reach the peak. But if you prepare, practice, work towards that goal and believe you can, you’ll get there. Growth mindset is everything!
Sometimes when you’re promised golden eagles, they may just show up…seven of them in all! Not close enough for any decent pics but they were there, and they were breath-taking!
When the path is long and rough, you’ll keep your head down so you don’t miss your footing. Don’t forget to stop and look around and enjoy the view once in a while. And enjoy how far you have come!
Sometimes you’ll be ahead, sometimes you’ll be behind. The race is only with yourself. Just keep moving in the right direction.
Monitoring your metrics will keep you going and help you plan your next move. Keep an eye on the numbers and how much progress you’re making. Figure out what’s working and what needs to change.
When things get rocky, never be afraid to ask for help. And give a hand up to those coming behind you. Surround yourself with people who will support you and celebrate your achievements with you.
Yesterday we didn’t get to the peak of Comapedrosa (9655 feet) as planned becaue of the snow, but we did cover 6 miles and managed to the summit of Pic Alt de la Capa (8438 feet) instead. Didn’t hit the original target but still climbed to over 8000 feet. Always remember to celebrate how far you have come and what you have achieved. You can always try for your original target another day if you want to.
And, whatever journey you’re on, never ever forget the emergency chocolate!
