There were several lessons I learned on my most recent elk hunt in the Idaho Backcountry. Every one of these is undoubtedly applicable to real-life as well. When out in the woods, I find myself learning more about myself and my life than I ever do while “living” the life we all do. When you stop, listen, think, wonder, and spend time just thinking, that seems to be when all the goodness comes. Take some time to go on a hike and think to yourself sometime soon. Or just sit outside in the grass. You will know what I mean.

1. Always have bear spray. I mean ALWAYS. >> Be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
2. If you’re in unfamiliar territory, get off the mountain before dark. >> Don’t put yourself in unfamiliar territory unprepared. If you know you shouldn’t buy that new car, don’t.
3. Naps are always better outside. >> Naps are just good in general. They can increase alertness, boost creativity, reduce stress, improve perception, stamina, motor skills and accuracy, aid in weight loss, reduce the risk of heart attack, brighten your mood and boost memory.
4. Move slower; you’re louder than you think. >> Be analytical in your decision-making. Also, someone is always watching and listening to you. I learned this the hard way with a team member of mine recently. Don’t treat people how you want to be treated. Instead, treat them how they want to be treated.
5. The wind will change at any given moment for no apparent reason. >> Shit happens, be ready for it. Even when you’ve made all the proper plans and precautions, life sometimes doesn’t go your way. Feel it, learn from it, and keep moving forward.
6. Pace Yourself; you’ll never catch up to an animal that doesn’t want you to. >> Life’s a sprint, not a marathon. Lesson two can be that you’re missing something. Take a step back, detach emotionally, and make sure your plan of attack is correct.
7. Plan your work, work your plan. >> Self-explanatory. Plan your weeks, not your days. What are your outcomes for the week? NOW GET AFTER IT!
8. A CRICK bath is better than no bath. >> Work with what you have. You will never have the resources you want, so work with the resources you do have. Tony Robbins’ quote that I love: ‘It’s never that you don’t have enough resources, it’s that you don’t have enough resourcefulness.’

Get your there peoples and move your body.

GO, DO & GROW!