In some ways our decision to go is comparable to a difficult climb.

We’d seen the climb from afar and it immediately caught our attention. It looked bold, exposed, overhanging, piqued our imagination and sneaked its way into our dreams. We’d pass by it every now and again, look up at the route admiringly. Following a chat with friends, the decision was made: next weekend we’d try it…

Stood below the climb, you suddenly feel overwhelmed, anxious, unsure about what lies ahead. You start doubting whether you’ve made the right decision in giving this a go. Getting off the ground can be the toughest part but once on the wall a calm begins to settle and during those first few moves you settle further into yourself, into your body and into your mind. You take control of the moment rather than letting the moment control you. Concentrated, focused and hyper aware, you find a rhythm and everything is in harmony. The moves fit together neatly like pieces of a puzzle.

You’ll inevitably reach the crux – the most difficult part of the climb – and doubts might start creeping in. If not controlled, those doubts can cripple you: what were you thinking? Have you made the right decision? Are you strong enough? We expect to experience a crux or two during our travels but plan to deal with it like we do climbing: onwards and upwards. Breathe. Focus. Trust yourself and your strength. And don’t forget to snatch a moment now and again to look around you – how far you’ve got and what you’ve achieved, so high off the ground…

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