Overlandnm

Traction boards, winch, pulley, gloves and a line damper. We’ve all been there, we are prepared for self rescue and that’s why we carry the gear after all, right?

What if the rut you are stuck isn’t on the trail? I find motivation comes in waves, and usually at the most inconvenient times throughout the day. Best case, I write myself a note that almost never makes sense later. More often, I convince myself that I will remember this great idea this time. Because of this, I am a creature of habit. I like the same meals, the same shows, anything that feels familiar. This is very frustrating. It tends to lead me to the same places repeatedly. I end up not exploring somewhere new. Familiar feels safe.

We have no shortage of options. In today’s world we are constantly bombarded with new everything. Just bought the newest something that you’ve had your eye on for a while? There is an even newer one right around the corner. Living in New Mexico, you can pick a new area to explore every week for life. You’d never see the same place twice.

What keeps us in these ruts? During a burst of inspiration for a new place or new trip idea, there is also doubt. It is easy to let that doubt keep you in the rut. Why not go to the same places over and over again? They are safe, we obviously liked them for a reason the first (few?) times, and what if the something new isn’t as good as as the familiar we know? What will other people think if they notice we are doing something different?

How much do you stand to gain by leaving a familiar, safe and comfortable place for the unknown? Facing and overcoming even minor discomfort is growth. Stepping outside of our comfort zones can be intimidating. It can also be very enriching. Every favorite place, every favorite memory, every skill was new at some point. Let doubt become inspiration. Find that new campsite, apply for that new job, let that new person in your life get close. Whatever ruts we are stuck in, we can get unstuck from. Maybe you need a team to help dig. Maybe you need a tow. Maybe you just need to bounce an idea off of someone.

The trails we explore in life can lead us to challenges and rewards. Practice with the gear have, make a list of the gear you need. Most of all, get uncomfortable and find something new.

Until the next time,

Andy