At 60, I decided to take on a personal challenge, 160 km over 8 days climbing and descending the equivalent of Mt Fuji.

Yes, I took on a section of the Bibbulmun Track.

A beautiful part of the country and the perfect way to self-discovery. I admit up front, I took the challenge on quite lightly, but let me assure you, wondering around the local park with a pack is nothing like the undulations of the track across mud, pea gravel and leaf litter with 22 kg on your back. It did take me 3 or 4 days to get trek fit, then it become one foot in front of the other for the 20 km journey between each camp. I was really enjoying the challenge.

What was reaffirmed for me?

1. Although I didn’t train as hard as I could have/ should have, I did my research and had the right gear. I didn’t carry too much, and I didn’t need anything I didn’t have.
2. Keeping a positive mind set is really important, physical weakness seems to accompany negative thoughts, good positive self-talk was really important.
3. Living in the moment, I had a week where I focused on only what I was doing right then and there (mindfulness), a wonderful week of meditation leading to achievement.
4. You are never too old; I was nowhere near the oldest on the track. No Limits.
5. I can deal with the unknown, I could just go with the flow and manage with whatever was thrown my way including thunderstorms or unknown campsites and that was OK as it was part of the journey.
6. How little I actually needed to live my life to its fullest.
7. I can enjoy my own company for extended periods.
8. When my thoughts did wonder, they always went to family. Don’t take them for granted.
9. Discipline eats motivation for breakfast.

Next time, I will take a companion, probably my youngest son and that will be a great bonding experience I’m looking forward to it (the bond of common suffering as my old army buddy used to call it).

We have had Covid, lockdowns, restricted travel etc. etc. but what are you doing to challenge and stretch yourself?

If not now, then when?