Just over a week ago I got the opportunity to have a quick trip up to one of my happy places. The Blue Mountains have always felt like a second home, I've been so fortunate right throughout my life to spend time there with family and friends. Nowadays trips also include amazing adventures with some great people who live up there (like I've written about in the past, climbing, abseiling and canyoning). The week before provided another great example of challenging myself, while also getting playful with a particular challenge that I set for my friend.
"Don't limit your challenges; challenge your limits." - Jerry Dunn
I'm the least experienced climber out of the four of us (if you don't take into account their 8 month old baby who came with us the other week - see photo below). So for me the challenge we're navigating can feel amplified on these adventure days. But I'm always inspired by what I'm actually capable of doing with the support of friends who first of all have incredible expertise. Then secondly, who believe so much in my potential (even when at certain times I may be doubting it). And then really importantly, see success through a lens of courageously stretching comfort zones, putting in effort and celebrating growth. It's such a privilege to spend time with people like that.
"Challenges are what makes life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful." – Joshua J. Marine
So now to the picture above, this is where the playful challenge comes in for my friend. The 25m climb we were doing was new to me, but was one my friend had done many times before. You may notice he's only got one shoe on, sorry Marty. What you may not be able to see is the blindfold he's also wearing. As I belayed I was in awe of the way he was open to the challenge, navigated safely the ups and downs that he encountered along the way, and then reflected on what this new experience had taught him once he returned back down to the ground. A challenge is always an opportunity, if we choose to embrace it in that way.
"Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don't fight them. Just find a new way to stand." - Oprah Winfrey
These adventure days always remind me of the importance of challenge within our journeys of potential. They also always remind of how important continuing to be a participant is when you're a facilitator. If I'm hoping to foster choosing courage over comfort within our programs, then I have to also be reflecting on, practicing and celebrating those skills, attitudes and behaviours within my own life as well. I can't wait for the next opportunity to explore the possibilities, discover potential and act authentically with my friends again in the Blue Mountains. I wonder what challenge I'll have to be open to then.
“We don't grow when things are easy; we grow when we face challenges.” - Joyce Meyer
