For the lucky few an adventure can be climbing a famous mountain, crossing an ocean single handed, skiing an untouched slope or reaching a new limit for mankind through speed, distance or endurance. But what, I ask, does adventure mean for you?
"An adventure is an unusual, exciting, and possibly dangerous activity, such as a trip or experience, or the excitement produced by such an activity." [Cambridge Dictionary]. This can mean many different things to many different people.
A professional explorer will tell you that danger is always there, but planning and preparation is the key to reducing this unwanted side effect of adventure.
The words that pop out for me are "unusual", "exciting" and "activity". No matter what you do, if these three key words can be applied, it is your adventure.
The beginning of a new year is a great time to make plans, but where do you start?
Firstly, start with yourself. Look back into your past. What is it that you have done before that was new to you and gave you that buzz of excitement? Something that takes you out of your comfort zone.
Is there something that you've always wanted to do, learn, try, but never taken that first step?
Get inspired. Leaders in their field can be inspirational at this stage, so read some books, maybe go to an event or talk. Find groups of like minded people who are already doing what you want to do. Facebook is a great place for this. There are groups for literally everything!
Once you've worked out what it is, it's time to say "Yes" and start making that plan:
When: Choose a date and put it on the calendar. You're not going to be leaping off the sofa and straight up a mountain, so be realistic. If there is training, learning or fund raising involved, you need time. Choosing the date is your first step towards making your adventure a reality.
How: Do your research. Work out your budget. How are you going to pay for it? What equipment will you need? Does it involve travel? The more work you put in now, the better your adventure will be. To borrow a famous phrase "Be prepared" [Scouts].
Who: Are others coming with you? Make sure that they are on board and as committed as you are. A good team is one that complements and supports each other, especially when it gets tough. The best teams also know how to have fun. Even if this is a solo event, there will still be people at home routing for you. Keep them involved and informed. At the very least, someone will need to know where you are and when you should be back.
Finally, something will go wrong! Don't worry, this is part of the experience. You may find yourself challenged and having to adapt to the situation in front of you, but, oh boy, that can be the best part of the story when you get home.
Now, pick up that pen and start making plans...I can't wait to hear about your next adventure!