Life’s Hike: Finding Balance, Gratitude, and Growth
Little lessons that lead to huge breakthroughs
About a year and a half ago, I found myself on a treacherous trail in the corporate wilderness.
I was spending 60 hours a week navigating the rocky terrain of leadership, managing budgets, and guiding teams, all the while barely noticing that I had strayed off the path of personal well-being. Slowly, without realizing it, I began neglecting my body and mind, filling them with all sorts of junk and unhealthy distractions and I never thought to challenge that process.
My daily routine became a kind of zombie-like state getting home from work and devouring comfort food that was easy but did nothing for me in the long run. I’d numb my mind with video games and social media until sleep came. The next day, I’d set off again down the same worn-out path, feeling like I was stuck in a loop, like I was walking in circles on the same mountain.
On my days off, I’d spend time online shopping buying things I didn’t need, drinking with friends or again retreat into video games or the noise of my work inbox, trying to prove myself to others. But deep down I felt like something was missing. I couldn’t quite put my finger on it, but I knew I was lost.
It wasn’t until I made my way off the corporate path, forced into the unknown and after searching I finally found the trail back to peace. It was one of the scariest points in my adult life, but it was also the moment I realized I had the power to change my direction. I could start hiking a new path, one that led toward a healthier, more fulfilled life.
Here’s what I learned along the way, like a series of trail markers to help you find your way if you, too, feel like you’re stuck on the wrong path:
1. Put Your Focus on Mental and Physical Health
Think of your mind and body like the backpack you carry on a hike—it holds everything you need for the journey. If it’s weighed down with junk, you’ll never make it very far. Start small:
Choose healthier foods, drink more electrolytes, get plenty of rest, this will fuel your body on the trail.
Move your body every day, whether it’s a workout, a walk, stretching, being spiritual.
Clear the mental fog. Use mindfulness or journaling to ensure your mind is as sharp as your feet on the ground.
A simple morning routine that’s been a game changer for me is having my cup of coffee outside in the sunlight. It’s like taking in a fresh breath of air after a long climb. Nature has a way of recharging your spirit, and I’ve found that a short intentful sun soak can do wonders for your soul.
2. Limit Screen Time and Get Back to Nature
Our phones and screens can become like heavy boulders on a hike—slowing us down, diverting us off course. Break free by setting up boundaries:
Plan "phone-free" moments in your day where you can focus on the journey instead of distractions.
Replace scrolling with something more fulfilling—like reading a book, picking up a hobby, or just enjoying the company of those around you.
I’m still working on this, but cutting back on the digital noise has made me feel lighter and more at peace. It’s also given me back valuable time to focus on the positive things and people in my life, rather than getting lost in negative media and self-comparison. Stepping away from your phone is like a breath of fresh air.
3. Keep Learning and Growing
Hiking isn’t about staying on the same trail; it’s about exploring new paths and reaching higher peaks. If you stop learning, you stop growing.
Listen to a new podcast, read books that challenge your thinking, learn a new hobby or try something you’ve always wanted to do.
Stay curious and open-minded about the world and your own potential.
For me, that meant creating a children’s book, diving into public speaking, trying my hand at tennis, and even challenging myself to go an entire year without drinking. Each of these was like a new path I ventured down, helping me stretch and grow in ways I hadn’t expected.
4. Invest more In Relationships That Encourage Your Journey
The people you travel with make all the difference on a hike. If your companions are dragging you down, it’s time to rethink your circle.
Seek out relationships that uplift, have your best interest and help guide you.
Be present with loved ones, and distance yourself from those who aren’t helping you reach your peak.
Instead of the default “Let’s go out for drinks,” I now find myself suggesting, “Let’s go for a run and talk about life.” “Let’s play a board game and ditch the phones” It’s more rewarding to climb together.
5. Dream Big and Take Action
Hiking isn’t about staying at the bottom of the mountain; it’s about setting your sights on the summit. Dream beyond where you are now and take steps to climb higher:
Set big, audacious goals, but break them down into manageable steps.
Celebrate progress, no matter how small, and keep moving forward.
Instead of focusing on what’s wrong or what’s holding me back, I’ve shifted my attention to what’s possible—the new horizons, the peaks I can reach. That’s the beauty of the climb.
6. Be Grateful While You Climb
Climbing our life’s mountain can be tough, but it’s important to appreciate the view along the way. Gratitude for where you are now doesn’t mean you’re not striving for the summit—it means you’re mindful of your journey as you make your way up.
I try to practice an "oath of gratitude" whenever negativity tries to take hold. When life hits, I stop and remind myself of the blessings it has also given me. Like when I borrowed my brother’s car, and it got towed the same day. Instead of stressing over it, I laughed with the tow company workers, and when I got the car back, I told myself, “I’m just thankful it wasn't stolen, and I got it back safely.”
Gratitude helps you enjoy the climb, even when it’s steep, and reminds you that every step forward is progress.
Conclusion
Personal change isn’t instantaneous; it's like a long hike up a mountain. But every step, every small change, adds up. Start by focusing on one or two of these steps, and you’ll see how they lead you to higher ground.
Life’s not about simply getting by. It’s about thriving, finding joy in the journey, overcoming obstacles, and making it to the summit of your own potential. So take that first step, pack your bag, and set off on the trail. You’re not stuck, you’re just gearing up for the climb of your life.
If you would like to discuss these topics further, I’d enjoy the conversation. Feel free to get in contact with me. Cheers.