One of the biggest and best preparations I could have done for this endeavor is to read the book ‘Pacific Crest Trials’ by Zach Davis and Carly Moree. Seriously, if you’re even slightly considering doing a journey of this magnitude, pick up a copy and check it out. I’ve got no financial interest here, just passing on the good word.
It should be of no surprise that buying gear and getting a ride to the trailhead are the easiest parts of hiking the PCT. The first month is basically a honeymoon, it’s all new and great and there’s nothing to complain about. The trials begin soon after….
Chapter 2 of the book is about mentally preparing for the trip. As part of this work, they suggest an exercise where you dig deep and write down three lists. The first one is the why; Why do you want to do this? List number two is about the benefits you think you’ll get from completing the PCT; What will you gain from completing the PCT? The third list is about the negative consequences of quitting; If I quit the PCT, I will…
So, with no further ado, here are my lists for the whole world to see.
I am hiking the Pacific Crest trail because..
- I need to leave my employer and do something different. No better time to have a “gap year” than between employments.
- I love adventures
- I thrive on being different, not following social norms
- I love challenges
- I want to try a different ‘vice’; something besides my 3-decades old motorcycle habit
- I want to meet a new group of people; different ages, cultures and backgrounds
- I want to be a positive influence on my two sons; to show them that your destiny and path are within your control
When I complete the PCT, I will..
- Walk with my head held high
- Get back to a physically healthy self
- Learn to go with the flow
- Become a different man than I have been for the past ten years
- Learn to live by, “This too shall pass”
- Learn and practice meditation/mildfulness
- Respect for myself
- Gain a new-found motivation to earn a living
- Regain my self-confidence
- Learn to stop over-thinking things, to let the “trail” provide
If I give up finishing the PCT, I will…
- Feel like a failure and a quitter
- Not have the confidence to tackle difficult challenges
- Fall back into depression
- Get fat and less sexy again
That you even attempt this makes me even more proud to know you! Your goals of mindfulness and a this too shall pass mentality are something I’m a firm believer in. I hope you find everything you need on your journey and I will be here to harass you in the driveway when you return 🤓