Finding Your Way
Once upon a time, I left Ohio for the wilds of the west and landed in the Alaskan bush. Moving from the city to the mountains was definitely a game changer. I now had to pay attention to my surrounding area to find my way. I mean REALLY pay attention. If I didn’t, Mother Nature would put the ‘smack down’ on me, and there was the possibility of never returning. Geez, what do you do when Mother Nature does put the ‘smack down’ on you and the clouds roll in and you’ve lost your way?
I found a mentor that took me under his wing at the time. He took me bush whacking to climb mountains, without trails and taught me how to find my way. All we had was what was on our backs, a map and a manual compass. No GPS unit, no cell phone, just our good senses.
This might scare some of you, and it did me at first, but I knew I had to trust my mentor to guide and teach me how to develop my sense of direction. Here are 4 tips to navigate the wilderness and how it can mimic life.
1. Prepare for the worst.
If you prepare yourself for what might happen, then having a plan B or C is a no brainer. You are ready for whatever comes at you. If you’re heading into the wilderness bring your map, extra clothes, food, emergency shelter and some survival supplies such as a whistle, headlamp, lighter, and old school compass. To negotiate life, figure out what you need ahead of time to make your journey and pack your supplies.
2. Pay attention to your surroundings.
Take a look around you the next time you’re outside. Check out the flowers, trees, sky, listen for birds and feel the wind blow on your face. Look for significant landmarks that you can seek out should you find yourself lost.
3. Set a directional heading and continue to your destination.
The benefit of an old school compass is that you point to your destination and keep that heading while you make your way through the forest. Problems that can arise when you can’t see the direct line to your destination (like in life) due to trees, or clouds without a navigation device is that you end up lost, and running in circles repeating your routes. Having a guide, such as a mentor or coach, or manual compass will help you reach your desired destination even when it seems to be eluding you.
4. Don’t forget to turn around and look back.
When heading into the wilds of the forest or on the journeys of your life, don’t forget to turn around and look back. The scenery is different when looking in a different direction and so are the past lessons of your life. Find your landmarks in all directions to guide you to and from your destination. Don’t let the negative lessons rule your life. Instead hire a guide or life coach to help progress you to the right path.
Getting lost in the wilderness can give you a sense of panic brought on by the ensuing disorientation. This mimics anxiety and panic attacks in life. Utilizing a guide, therapist or coach to help you navigate your life will lead you to your destination.
If you are feeling lost in the wilderness of your life, then give me a shout and let’s discuss options on how to get you back on your path. Schedule your FREE 60 minute consultation now.
P.S. And don’t forget to POP A DOSE OF NATURE on a daily basis. Mother nature might not be the cure all, but she has fascinating abilities to heal you with time.
I’m inviting you to fill your prescription now!
Upcoming experiences will included a summer retreat in July, and Emotional Resilience workshop, and some wildflower and hiking therapy sessions.
About Diana – Owner of Your Adventure Rx
Diana is an Adventurer, Certified Therapeutic Recreational Specialist (CTRS), worked as professional outdoor recreation educator for people with and without disabilities for the last 20 years, traveled to over 20 countries and is also certified in Wilderness First Aid. She climbed many mountain peaks, biked numerous trails and paddled all around the world.
Ladies, if you thought you couldn’t do it, think again. If you hang out with us for too long you’ll start believing in yourself and leave knowing you can accomplish anything.
