Set A Date And DO IT!
The amount of people who complete a thru-hike is drastically lower than the amount of people who think about doing one. This can be related to anything, not just thru-hiking. When planning for a life changing experience, we tend to think realistically and accept that it cant happen because this reason or that. But, let’s talk about the reasons why it should happen.
It will forever change your life.
I talk to a lot of people about my hike and they say theyll never have time for something like that. I wonder though, how do they not have time? It will change their life, how do they not have time for that?!
Youll feel powerful and able to accomplish absolutely anything.
When your mind and body are equally invisible, there is nothing that can stop you. Its a feeling that you are able to revisit even after the trail. The memories are vivid and fresh because those were some of the most present moments youve experienced yet.
It will restore your faith in the goodness of humanity.
The amount of help thru-hikers receive is abundant. It comes in all forms and you will be eternally grateful for each ride, beer, or shower you receive. Open your heart to these people because they are angels, on and off trail.
It will make you live in the moment.
Presence. Here. Now. This moment. Thru-hiking gave me the ability to practice presence everyday. After 5-6 months of living in the moment, it becomes a way of life. You realize everything is temporary – one moment the pain in your feet is unbearable, and the next moment, those same feet got you standing on a ridge with the most breathtaking view.
Youll experience lifes simplicity and be comfortable under any circumstance.
A new understanding will surface when you carry everything you need to live on your back. Youll realize the material objects of the developed world dont provide happiness or comfort. Being exposed to all of earths elements brings a comfort and type of happiness that is only found in the wild. Experience is knowledge, and knowledge is comfort.
One last thing
Do it.
Set a date, and do it.
If youre feeling unprepared, youll probably never feel prepared enough. But through each situation, youll learn a little bit more about yourself. This will build and build, until youre comfortable and confident that you can excel in anything you do. No task is too big. The key is consistency, just a little bit everyday.
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Comments 2
2/25/2019
I will do it!
I will do it! June 2018, how long do I need to condition myself for it?