Don’t Jump Out a Window
We’re rounding out the 2/3 point of 2013. This year is flying by… so fast! I’m really enjoying putting my passion for Climbing into words and sharing them with you. I’m at a bit of a crossroads with my climbing, my life, and the combination of the two. The more I think about climbing, the more I despise the constraints that my day-job puts on my climbing goals.
I’ve recently read a couple great posts from fellow climbers about having to adjust their expectations when it comes to climbing and goals. The first was from the gals at Crux Crush. Although I will never know what its like to be pregnant. I understand the feeling when priorities change. I understand putting others before yourself. The caveman instinct in me would have already bought a converted van and be dirtbagging it in many amazing climbing locations across the US and the World. The challenge is… I’m not a caveman, and I love my family dearly. The well being of my wife and children takes precedence over my personal climbing ambitions. So when I review my fairly ambitious goals for 2013 and realize I am waaaay behind pace (possibly too far behind to catch up), my first response is to get discouraged.
I see videos, like the one above, of climbers setting and hitting their goals. I’m super happy for him, but my blood boils that I am not. But then I realize, my life is unique to me. And yours to you. Like CanadianKate, I realized that happiness is not found in the destination alone, but even more so in the journey getting there.
Don’t Jump Out a Window
Unless you’re Parkour Legend David Belle
I remain positive that I am advancing in both my technique and conditioning. I am feeling stronger than ever. I am climbing smoother than ever. My problem solving and route-reading seems to be very strong. I just haven’t gotten outdoors much. That’s what we train for anyway. So, I’ll take advantage of those outings when they come. But I’m not going to Jump Out of a Window out of despair. I’m going to count my blessings and “Climb On”.
How are you doing with your goals? I encourage you to press on and have fun in your Journey!
~ Climb 4 Free ~
Posted on August 30, 2013, in Lessons: The Series, Planning, Psychological. Bookmark the permalink. 3 Comments.
Real World Climbing 
I’m with you! There is no way that I’m going to be able to attain my goals for this summer, but there is always the next. And the process 🙂
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The great thing about climbing goals is that they can still be there next season. If you reach all your goals, you just aren’t aiming high enough. Me, I’m closing in on my multi year goal, one that I once thought impossible. I’m also closing in on several non climbing goals that have taken time away from blogging (but not from climbing, yet). Keep at it, and just keep setting new goals!
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Definitely not the only one. Learning to live with the balance and priorities myself even while feeling like jumping out of my skin at times. Very well said!
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