If Life Was a Hike: An Analogy Between Hiking and Life by a Mountain Enthusiast

I have a great love of hiking.

I find that hiking is a great opportunity to be mindful and for reflection. It feels like the regular movement of the body and the precision required in placing your feet creates good conditions for calmness in the mind.

These are the lessons I have learned so far from hiking, which I think can be applied to life as well.

Every step matters. Pay attention.

Don’t overestimate what you’re capable of.

Don’t underestimate what you’re capable of.

Don’t set out on a big hike if your heart is not in it.

Be courageous and have trust. But check the weather forecast nevertheless.

If you walk into a thicket of clouds and can’t see where your path is leading you, carry on regardless, if you’re confident it’s the right one.

Don’t be discouraged if the path you’re walking on is less travelled. In fact, that’s a good sign you’ve chosen a great trek.

Trade comfort for adventure. It’s worth it every time.

Take one step at a time. Don’t look up too many times, thinking about how far you still have to go. Just put one foot in front of the other.

Enjoy what is around you. Smell the flowers on the way, don’t obsess about the top.

The fact that you’re not Reinhold Messner does not mean you can’t get up a mountain.

Walk at your own pace.

Think about what you are committing yourself to. The longer you walk into one direction, the more difficult it is to turn around.

There might not be only one way that’s the right one.

Shortcuts are the exception, not the norm. Don’t expect them.

You don’t need to have expensive gear to start walking.

Don’t forget to rest.

Yak shit makes the best fire. Many experiences that seem shitty at first have the potential to benefit you later.

Expect to get wet and cold and rejoice if you don’t.

Be thankful if you’re getting back uninjured. Take nothing for granted.

Bring biscuits.