Monday, May 8, 2023

Learning About Myself

Two years ago I was hiking with two friends in the pouring rain on the side of a mountain in New Hampshire. We were a few hours into a two night backpacking trip and we were soaked through. For many people this experience would be hellish. It wasn’t for me. I knew we were well prepared and we were doing something that I love. It was the start of a great trip.
 
I spend a lot of time reflecting. I do this to work towards being my best self. I structure my life based on these learnings, making sure I satisfy my basic needs, do more of the things that give me energy, and limit my exposure to the things that steal my energy. Today, I would like to share what I have learned about myself. Maybe it will help you understand me a little bit better. Maybe it will inspire you to reflect on how to work towards your best self.

Panorama of a mountain scene. In the foreground are a line of rocks with short pine trees behind them. Behind the pine trees is looking out over a large valley, with a string of mountains off in the distance. To the left are three greenish peaks. In the middle there are bluish ridge in the very far distances, and to the right is another ridge of peaks that are closer than the ridge in the middle, but further than the peaks on the left.
Our view from Zealand Cliff in the White Mountains, several hours after hiking in the rain. Photo by Jay Doyle.