Title: Lessons from the Wild: How Hill Walking Reflects the Journey of Life and Business
There’s something about the rugged beauty of Scotland’s far north that puts life into perspective says our founder and CEO Bobby Morrison. Recently, he set out on a 3-day hiking trip, using a disused barn as my base to tackle one of the country’s remotest mountains. Being miles from civilization, surrounded by untouched wilderness, gave me time to reflect on the parallels between hill walking and the everyday challenges we face in life and business.
Embracing Discomfort
One of the most valuable lessons from my time in the wild was learning to be comfortable with discomfort. Out there, nature doesn’t care whether you’re tired, cold, or facing an uphill struggle. The wind howls, the rain pours, and the trail stretches on regardless. But learning to accept that discomfort—whether it’s physical exhaustion or mental strain—makes you stronger.
The same can be said for business. Building something meaningful isn’t easy. There are times when it feels like you’re climbing a never-ending hill with obstacles at every turn. But just like in hiking, it’s important to lean into the discomfort, knowing that it’s part of the process. Growth often comes from pushing yourself beyond your comfort zone.
Knowing Your Destination and Persisting Until You Get There
When hiking, there are moments when the summit seems impossibly far away. You could easily turn back, but knowing your destination and refusing to give up is key. On my hike, there were times when the trail wasn’t clear, and doubt crept in, but keeping the summit in sight kept me going.
In business, the path to success isn’t always straightforward. There are unexpected challenges, moments of uncertainty, and times when the finish line seems out of reach. But if you’re clear about your goals and remain persistent, you’ll eventually get there. The journey may be long and filled with setbacks, but the key is to keep moving forward, step by step.
The Journey Matters More Than the Destination
After three days of hiking, with sore legs and a sense of accomplishment, I realized something else: it’s not really about reaching the summit. The true value lies in the journey itself. The experiences along the way—the moments of solitude, the challenges, and the small victories—are what make the adventure meaningful.
This applies to life and business, too. Often, we get so focused on achieving our goals that we forget to appreciate the journey. The lessons learned, the relationships built, and the challenges overcome along the way are just as important, if not more so, than the final outcome. It’s the process that shapes us, not just the destination.
Find Your Own Wild
There’s something deeply rejuvenating about stepping away from the pressures of everyday life and immersing yourself in nature. It gives you space to think, to reset, and to discover what really matters. Whether it's hiking in the wild or pursuing your own personal or professional journey, I encourage everyone to step outside of their routine and find their own wild.
Being in nature helps you discover your inner strength, resilience, and clarity. It forces you to adapt, think on your feet, and embrace whatever comes your way—skills that apply to every aspect of life.
Conclusion
My time in the far north of Scotland, hiking through remote landscapes, reminded me that the lessons we learn in the wild can translate into everyday life. Whether it's the discomfort of pushing through challenges, staying focused on your goals, or appreciating the journey, these experiences offer valuable insights.
So, whether you're tackling a mountain or navigating the complexities of life and business, remember: it's not just about reaching the top—it's about the journey that gets you there. I urge you to take a moment, get out into the wild, and discover your own adventure. You never know what you might learn along the way.
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