Yellow Backpack Adventures

Have you ever gotten so caught up in worrying about the future that you lose sight of what you have right in front of you? Around four years ago I developed severe anxiety. I was so caught up in trying to further my career and “get to where I was going” that I wasn’t really enjoying life.

Soon after, I purchased a mantra ring for myself that I wear around my neck. I’ll give you a guess of what mantra I chose…that’s right! Enjoy the journey. It has served as a reminder to stay in the present moment, and to not get caught up in what the future may hold. This mantra really came to life for me on my second hike after the pandemic began.

The hike was the Looking Glass Rock trail in Pisgah National Forest. My friend and I took the four hour drive on an overcast morning in October 2020. We arrived at the trailhead around 10am and did a quick stretch to shake out the car ride. As we began to hike, a light drizzle started to form. This made the frequent changes in terrain a bit more challenging, especially as we got closer to the top and came across more rocks.

For much of the trip up, I found myself focusing on just making it to the top. I had done my research beforehand, and I knew the trail was a little over three miles. Even in that moment surrounded by the beautiful trees and wildlife, I was just so anxious to get to the top. I couldn’t appreciate the beauty around me.

It was about midway up the trail I took a break, and used that time to refocus on my mantra. Once we resumed I was finally able to enjoy the journey up, which made the experience at the top so much more rewarding. I even stopped to take a picture of my ring, because I knew that it helped me to refocus in those moments.

Enjoy the Journey has not only become my mantra in my everyday life, but on my adventures as well. Today I’m challenging you to fixate less on the future, and to take a moment to appreciate where you are currently on your journey through life.