How skydiving changed my perspective on climbing training
As I celebrated my 30th birthday yesterday, I reflected on what this milestone represents—a new decade, a fresh start, and the promise of transformative change. To mark the occasion, I wanted to do something spectacular, something I’d dreamt of since childhood: skydiving.
The idea of jumping into my 30s from the sky felt symbolic, an exhilarating way to embrace the future.
But the journey to this moment taught me an unexpected lesson in dedication and focus that has profound implications for my climbing training and life goals.
The Challenge
In the weeks leading up to my birthday, I scheduled a skydiving adventure. My wife and parents planned to join me, turning it into a memorable family event.
However, four days before the big jump, I was struck with a severe cold. A poor reaction to congestion medicine, compounded by mixing coffee with Sudafed, left me dizzy, nauseous, and unable to breathe through my nose.
My brain was foggy, my appetite nonexistent. In that state, skydiving seemed impossible, and the excitement for my birthday began to fade.
But the significance of this jump was too important to let slip away. I was determined to feel better and make the jump, literally and metaphorically, into my new decade as I had envisioned.
The Struggle
Three days before the jump, I was tempted to call in sick to my remote job, to spend the day resting and recovering.
However, circumstances at work meant I had to manage additional responsibilities, making rest a luxury I couldn’t afford. Balancing work commitments with my health, I managed short naps and nourished myself with chicken noodle soup to keep going.
Despite my efforts, I remained too ill to consider jumping out of a plane.
Two days before the jump, my adverse reaction to the medication resolved, but I was still battling congestion and exhaustion. Historically, these symptoms lingered for over a week, leaving me uncertain about my recovery timeline.
Yet, the goal was clear: do everything possible to recover in time for the jump.
So, I slept when I could, ate nourishing foods, and tackled my work obligations. I hoped that my dedication would pay off.
The Dedication
The day before the jump, I felt significantly better, albeit still congested and sleepy. Yet, I was optimistic enough to travel, determined that my birthday would unfold as planned.
On the day of the jump, we awoke early for our scheduled skydiving slot. Despite lingering tiredness, I was resolute, unwilling to let anything deter me from achieving this long-held dream.
We went tandem skydiving, and while I just had to put my arms in the air and enjoy the view, the experience required more energy than anticipated.
Post-jump, I was exhausted, my congestion persisting, but I had accomplished my goal.
The Lesson
Reflecting on this experience, I realized how my unwavering dedication and focus had enabled me to push through illness to achieve something significant.
I had prioritized my health, sacrificed distractions, and maintained a singular focus on getting better, proving to myself the power of dedication.
This revelation begs the question: what if I applied this level of dedication to my climbing training or Send Edition?
Imagine the possibilities for transformation and growth in the next decade if I channel the same focus and determination into these areas.
As you reflect on your own goals and aspirations, I encourage you to evaluate how much you truly want to achieve them.
What actions will you take to ensure success, without fail?
Dedication and focus can make the difference between dreaming and achieving. Whether it’s climbing, work, or personal growth, commit to your goals with the intensity you would if you were skydiving into your dreams.
The journey begins with a decision—how dedicated are you willing to be to make your dreams a reality?
