It sounds a bit naff and is oft repeated, but I really can see parallels between planning and executing an expedition and this funny thing we call – life. Of course, one can easily draw parallels between most anything if they try hard enough, but for the moment let’s stick to expeditions and life. I know just enough about both I hope. Perhaps, drawing parallels between the two is not quite right. Shouldn’t they run side by side? Or come to think of it just as one entity? I suppose in my world they truly are.
The obstacles I face in life continually revolve around every aspect of undertaking an expedition – mapping, logistics, sponsorship, websites, flights, visas, money, writing, speaking and those annoying realists who tell you it can’t be done. At times, the endless chase to complete all these things can become a bit of a drag, but the feeling of achievement when even a small obstacle is overcome can be massive.
I was excited to inform a mate that I had been invited to be part of the Royal Geographical Society’s Regional Theatre Programme for 2010. Just a couple of lectures, but paid and legit. He was less than overwhelmed. I suppose the promise of less than a £1000 in the summer of next year is not all that impressive to some. But to me it means much more than that. It was another win, another door, that next step, however small it may be. It was looking up that big wall and finding another solid hold and pushing on to the summit. Similarly, gaining an audience with the BBC or an email back from the Alpine Club of Iran gives me a real boost which again propels me forward. It is these little things that I am truly grateful for and am lucky to have.
I am human and sometimes the no-return of emails, speaking events falling through and of late some tough injuries do slow me down somewhat. I find myself doing a bit of whinging and being distracted from pressing tasks. But, then I manage to take another step. Maybe I complete my business plan finally, or I have a route epiphany on Google Earth (sounds a bit rude!) and then off I go. Some more obstacles to overcome and a strange feeling of really looking forward to the next challenge, the next setback. I know I will break through them and keep on facing up (I think that’s the title of one of Bear Grylls’ books! I told you this might sound naff! Just kidding!)
