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Breaking Through

My sons and I enjoy backpacking in the mountains. It is a great escape from the world. There is nothing like hiking on a single track trail with all of your possessions strapped to your back. It just has a way of making things simple. The conversations we have as we walk and camp become deeper and more purposeful as we approach our summit of choice.

We always begin with confidence. When we leave the car, we know we are going to make it to the top. The first few miles fly by and the excitement of being on the trail keeps us going. Progress always means that the trail becomes more difficult. Soon we are either lost in endless switchbacks or steep ascents. Either way, our bodies and minds begin to feel the significance of the challenge ahead.

Reaching For The Top

No matter how prepared we are, the final trail to the peak is always a shock to our system. It is usually less traveled and more difficult to discern than the lower level trails. Its steepness reeks of danger and we always move a little more cautiously. The visual stimulus conjures uncertain thoughts, and there is always a point where the trail ahead looks too difficult and we wonder if we can make it, or if it is worth the risk to continue.

It is interesting to note that this point of uncertainty is usually just a few hundred yards from the top. The goal is in site, yet we still feel like turning back. 

The Summits of Life

I find myself in similar place on several projects right now. The finish lines are in sight, but I am tired. There are even moments when I find myself wondering if I have what it takes to go the distance. I am thankful for my experiences of climbing mountain peaks because I am using them to help me stay on target.

My successes on the mountain trails help me to believe that I will be equally successful on the trails of life. I have a plan and I can see where I am going. This keeps fear and doubt from discouraging me. I have been to the top of other summits and I will make it to the top of these ones.  

Only The Beginning

Rarely do we ever summit the highest peak. From the top we can always see another distant mountain worth climbing. Our summits become the base camps of our future climbs. It is there that we can see our next pursuit. It is there that a new vision is born.

The moments at the top are generally very brief. We capture it with a picture, enjoy the view, and then head out in search of the next adventure. We know that our time on the trail, and the lessons we learn are much more valuable than the moments we spend at the top, but standing on the top helps us to appreciate the trail and make meaning out of it.

What truths have you discovered at the top of the peaks you have climbed?

Where do you stand today? Can you see your peak of choice?

Are you reaching for the next level?

Reach for it. Don't stop until you get there. It is closer than you think and you can be whoever you want to be. The view at the top will help you see more clearly the successes of the previous and future you. My promise is always the same – "You ain't seen nothin yet!"

Live Today! Love Today!

Andrew Thorn

760-559-3548

Tags: Andrew Thorn, Authenticity, Carpe Articulum, Dreaming, Goal Setting, Heart Might Mind & Strength, Life is Good, Personal Best Leadership, The Authentic Me, The Telios Experience

This entry was posted on Thursday, February 25th, 2010 at 2:27 pm and is filed under Personal Best Leadership, Stepping Up. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.