Lessons from KILIMANJARO
(Photo: those who made it to the top of Kilimanjaro, with self and guide)
Even though my Kilimanjaro climb is less recent, certain lessons from it are memorable. These include:
1. Better sustain the cold
2. Bathe less extravagantly
3. Economize on clothes and possessions
4. Stop clock-watching
5. Take things more slowly
6. Observe and listen
7. Not fuss about comfort and convenience
8. Require less sleep
9. Sleep in uncomfortable conditions
10. Eat more simply and be less picky
11. Not need news from elsewhere
12. Take time out from electronics (TV, Internet, cell, etc.)
13. Push self further and harder, and not complain or avoid
14. Get less flustered about externals/what can’t be changed
15. Focus, no distraction, whereever and whenever
16. Chat with strangers and hear their stories
17. Open up to seizing the moment
18. Get back to basics (with everything!)
19. Assess what really matters
20. Be more fearless
Just like New Year’s resolutions, lessons learned on the trail can be hard to follow long-term, especially when there’s so many of them (and potential obstacles). Though everyday hastles aren’t exactly the same as chance-in-a-lifetime climbing challenges, circumstances and reactions mightn’t be too different!
