Hike More (New Year- Fresh Start)

Let’s be honest, 2020 has been a year most people are ready to leave behind. So, what are your goals for the New Year, a fresh start, re-boot with less Netflix and Facebook, lose weight/ get in better shape, spend more time with family and friends, or get Outside more this year.

Whatever your mission for 2021, I say tie it all together and hike more. I mention in other blogs about the use of a calendar, well, this year manage your time better and make things happen. First set a long term goal, for example one hike a week minimum for the next year. Now start planning your calendar by the month. Get organized and make no excuses. Next, if you have obligations this year, start planning hikes in conjunction with those obligations now- no procrastinating. For example you have to attend an out of state wedding or a business trip, research that area now and put some hikes together. You can invite others to join you on these hiking excursions you map out and spend some quality time together out on the trail. What about vacations, do the research, get the family involved and this year plan to be outside, visit national parks, whatever you choose, get out and hike!

Now that we have covered our travel plans for the year, it’s time to schedule things closer to home. For me, hiking is like exercise, the only bad hike or workout, is the one that never happened. So, start carving out your time on that calendar. Do some freelance hiking, wait- what’s freelance hiking? Use your imagination, take a stroll on the bike path you have always been curious about, or climb the hillside that catches your attention every time you have driven past. The important thing is to get outside with no excuses. Start exploring your nearby state parks, and I mean get in there, go off the beaten path, explore and have fun. Sounds easy right, make it official and carve out the time by putting it on the calendar.

This New Year is going to be amazing, you’re going to make things happen! Spend more quality time with friends and family or get some much needed alone time and get out and hike. Get into better shape, lose a little weight, breathe in some fresh air, be consistent and get outside and hike. Need motivation, Join a hiking group (Meet-up is a great resource) share a story with someone on the trail, get out and hike. Unplug from 2020, less TV and wasted time with social media, Get Outside and Hike!

Plan your year, write it down for all to see, do it now, you won’t regret it, challenge yourself, climb to new heights, get out and go Hike.

Happy New Year from The Rugged Outdoorsmen- get outside and be Rugged!