What is the point in stepping out
of the comfort zone and accept challenges?
This question certainly crosses the
mind once whenever I plan a trek or any adventure that involves physical
stretching.
Although the duration of adventure
is limited (5-15 days), needs a lot of prior preparation with regards to the
fitness. Typically, 1-3 months of prior training is required, which again seems
like a task as I need to break the “luxury” barrier to achieve.
The inertia might not stay longer
but the thoughts around “coming out of inertia” might take time (case-to-case
basis).
"One step" is usually what is
needed. For instance, climbing 40 stairs. Gradually increasing and getting to
1000, 2000, whatever.
On field, the mind needs to get
prepared to walk and complete the designated kilometers in the anticipated hours.
Self-determination and Group strengths come hand in hand to support.
While walking upward / downward
counting of kilometers/hours is inevitable. The mind at times get weaker and
suddenly wants to Push the limits.
Body (having a Soul) is an intelligent
device. It loves lethargy on one hand and on the other, when forced, it is
ready to push itself and achieve breakthrough. A great balance of body and mind
is at the display.
A well-prepped body and mind can
face a breakdown on the field. The group strength and will power comes into the
play. The revival process starts right there. Nature makes some jugaad
and things can move on.
Listening to motivational talks
and discourses about making that level of effort (purusharth) is a great
food for the mind to conceive and believe but it is more or less futile if the
next step i.e. “Action” is undermined.
Each step taken is an Action and makes
more Action happen.
The end goal can be defined at
high-level but probably might not have a clear sense at the initial stage.
A strong conviction in mind (karna
hai to bas karna hi hai) creates an adrenaline rush. This "rush" need to be capitalized.
The last mile might create a pain
in body, the panting sensations might soar. “Keep walking” is the key. Everyone
ahead of and behind me is walking with the similar faith.
Once the milestone for the day is
attained, there’s certainly a sigh of relief, a sense of accomplishment and 50%
of the tiredness is vanished (as probably it was on the mind).
Instead of “sit back, relax and
slid into the comfort zone” mode, some extra attempt is required here.
Change the attire, freshen up and
step out to breath in the milestone that was conquered today. Isn't it so so beautiful? It indeed is. What an achievement, yay!
Yes, I have pushed myself hard; and
here is my reward.
I know I am a bigger, better and a
brighter individual now. This is my "new comfort zone" and yes, I see a point in
stepping out of this comfort zone as well and accept the next level challenge!!!
This is how I summarize the
learning from the recent expedition – The most beautiful trek in the regions of
Sandakphu & Phalut.
