Long distance hiking can be quite monotonous. Each day being the same…eat, walk, sleep…repeat. Daily hiker life and chores become routine. While the body seems to adapt, the mind is another matter. Our brains don’t like monotony. It can quickly lead to boredom, frustration, depression, or just a general poor attitude.

On trail, attention to detail is paramount. Lose focus for an instant and there can be immediate consequences. Some of the results from my loss of attention: lost or damaged gear, hiking in the wrong direction, dehydration, and falling. In fact, I fell twenty nine times. Some being minor slips and several being a full on, out of control, along for the ride, type of fall. My post hike doctor visit revealed a fractured scapula, broken toe, bone chip in my elbow, and a slightly dislocated shoulder.

I got lucky!

How is one to stay focused?

It’s difficult, challenging, and different for each individual. I created a few mantras to help me stay engaged. Each morning, when I stepped onto the trail, I’d say, out loud, “Let’s go climb a mountain”. That was my cue to clear away distractions, to be fully present in the moment…a daily affirmation to remind me of my goals.

Here’s another: BEAST MODE

B – Breath Deep
E – Eat Often
A – Avoid Chaffing
S – Smile
T – Talk

M – Mind
O – Over
D – Demanding
E – Environment

When I felt distracted, challenged, or afraid, I’d use BEAST MODE to get me back on track. It was not only an affirmation that I was up to the task, but also a checklist of sorts to deal with the struggle. It seems silly to remind yourself that it’s okay to suck wind, to remember to eat, to take steps to avoid irritants, to be happy, and to communicate. But it worked. It was usually enough to enable me to power through.

In fact, I still use BEAST MODE in my daily life.

Think about it. You’re confronted with a difficult situation at work or home. Your pulse quickens, your heart pounds, you get butterflies in your stomach, and your mind races. If you’re not careful, you’ll say or do something you might regret. Employ BEAST MODE.

Take a deep breath, identify what is really irritating you, smile whether you want to or not, and speak your peace. If done correctly, the situation can be defused. It may even lead to breaking bread.

Do not underestimate the power of a mantra. They are your formula for success, your personal vision, a reminder of your priorities and values. They can quickly change your point of view, refocus your attention, and change your emotional state. Sometimes even pushing you past your deepest fears.

Who remembers “Daily Affirmation with Stuart Smalley”?

“I’m Good Enough, I’m Smart Enough, and Doggone It, People Like Me!”

Growler