An analogy for how we can work together

Andrea’s Hike on the GR20

I was 40 years old, and in a transition. My one desire was to hike the GR20, which is considered Europe’s hardest long-distance hike. The trail crosses down the spine of Corsica, and is also considered one of the most beautiful trails in the world. Those two factors alone had me sold. I find my solace and inspiration in nature, and that’s what I felt I needed. I’ve backpacked by myself through various countries, I speak French, and I’m athletic, so I figured the trip to Corsica and along the GR20 was well within my wheel house.

I prepared. I read a book about the GR20. I bought a bunch of gear. I spent my weekends hiking around the Marin Headlands with my heavy backpack. I figured out how to use crampons. I mapped out my month in Corsica. I was sure I was well prepared.

But, I wasn’t. I didn’t realize WHY the GR20 is considered the hardest GR in Europe; I didn’t accurately interpret the British use of the word ‘scrambling’. And, then connect that to my very real fear of heights (which can be debilitating). Nor, did I account for the many things out of my control - especially the weather.

But, there I was. And, per the Outward Bound moto, “If you can’t get out of it, get into it.”

Fortunately, I was able to move through my fear of heights (and it was all around me). I was wise enough to know the sections and days where I knew I would benefit from a team mate. And, I didn’t have a problem asking for help; plenty of hikers empathized with my situation and embraced my companionship.

Everything was going fine until the 3rd night. I had a pit in my stomach. The fourth stage (which is considered the most challenging) was the Cirque de Solitude, a legendary passage down a steep valley and then up a vertical climb that required ladders and ropes. My 30 lb pack was a few lbs too heavy for my frame, but I didn’t have anything I could get rid of (I had already cut my bar of soap in half). I was scared.

It was early June, so there was still snow in parts of the climb. There also had been a few days of heavy afternoon thunderstorms, so the conditions further complicated the situation. There was an option to take a bus down the valley and up the next valley, and bush whack my way to the 4th gite. This was not a well-worn path, and no one I met wanted to do this. So, I would be on my own, but I could bypass the Cirque do Solitude and make it back to the GR20, skipping just one stage. As an achiever, I was torn. But I also have a healthy sense for my limitations. I opted to bypass the Cirque.

I made it back to the 4th gite. Three days later, a tragic accident happened in the Cirque de Solitude (the worst in the history of the GR20). Seven lives were lost, resulting in a permanent redesign of Stage 4. I didn’t intuit this tragedy. I just have a strong inner voice.

A shadow was cast on those of us left on the GR20. The skies continued to pour abundantly. By the end of the 10th stage, I was able to communicate with my family. Was I not going to complete the final five stages? By any external yardstick, I would have failed - skipping the Cirque and not finishing. But, I was at peace with my decisions. My glass was full. And, I just bought myself five more days windsurfing.

How We Would Work Together

  • I can help with the skills and mindsets you want to build.

  • I can help you identify what is out of your control and focus on what you can control.

  • I can help you overcome some of your fears.

  • I can help you improve the relationships you need to achieve your goals.

  • I can help you work with your limitations.

  • I can help you redesign your route.

  • I can help you answer WHY you are on the GR20 in the first place. What do you want to get out of it? And, when do you know it’s time to move on?

If we choose to work together, you would be the hiker. It’s your path to tread. I will meet you where you are, and address your stated needs. We can be laser focused or go broad. The deeper we go, the greater the chance you will understand and build the mindsets and skills for a fulfilling path and through that I guarantee you will achieve more and find more success.