Ten years ago, I discovered hiking. I go for walks, hike hills and mountains. Sometimes just for an hour and sometimes for weeks. I hiked some thousand kilometers. I am not an athlete, I am mediocre at it, and I suffer from fear of heights and a really worn-out knee, but that doesn’t matter. I crossed the Alps several times and surrounded the Anapurna, when time allowed me to – as I worked a lot and led big teams. Hiking helped me to develop as a person and as a leader and gives me time to reflect. I am pleased to share my reflection and I hope to encourage you to put on your hiking shoes.
The path
The supposedly impossible is possible. All it takes is a plan, preparation, and optimism.
Strength and energy depend on the distance of the objective – not the other way around. The further away the more planning, preparation and optimism is needed.
Regardless of the distance of the hike, it requires an objective. The objective needs to have meaning, especially if it is far away.
The lighter the weight to carry the easier it is. I pack only what is absolutely necessary. The third pair of socks is dispensable. The same goes for teams – too many people on a task means too much alignment and lengthy discussions with no actual value added.
Without markings you get lost. Too many are a joke, you feel undervalued as if you don’t know your way. Too little is difficult as you get insecure after a while, even when the path is crystal clear. Feedback is like markings on the way.
The conditions and obstacles on the way
The sun cannot always shine. Everlasting rain is tiresome but every step moves you along. When it is rainy, foggy or cloudy you lose the broad perspective, but you gain a sharp view on what is close, like drops on the leaves. This can be beautiful if you allow yourself to change your perception.
Don’t question the path or the objective but continue walking, it will get better.
You are prouder of yourself when the path was not only easy. To master rain, obstacles, tricky passages, and unplanned events is often more fulfilling than a wonderful hike on a dreamy day.
Thunderstorms are dangerous. Protect yourself by making yourself as little and unseen as possible. Obvious protection like large trees or rocks can cost your life. Same can go for internal politics.
Energy on the way – keep going
Occasionally stop in the middle of the path and look back. You can enjoy what you have already achieved, and it gives you pride and confidence for what is ahead of you.
Don’t stop when you feel fear. Go slow and breathe but don’t stop. Singing helps too! When you stop the fear grows and the next step becomes an even more unmanageable step with every minute.
Rest. During the day only shortly because the tiredness and the effort to get up again gets too big. But in the evening stop at a reasonable time and treat yourself. A day off in between is wonderful and spontaneously taken even better than planned.
The interest of others can spur you. Recognition is always a joy. Only clueless comment that 25km/day really isn’t not that much.
Ask for help on the way. Often, I found the right path by asking for help. Or I got confirmation that I did not get lost.
In the mountains we are all equal. Short moments with strangers from different environments are always enriching and give energy.
Age is not important. Old people simply know more. They have seen more, know better perspectives and are generous in their help. A win:win, their joy to be asked reflects back on you.
You remember the path and not the objective. Every path has strengthened me.
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