I’m taking a break from my usual professional posts to share a little something I did this weekend. About two weeks ago, I was finding myself feeling super overwhelmed by school/work. It’s just always there, always weighing on me, and working from home, it’s literally staring me in the face. I thought that I needed to get away; I needed to find something else to focus on.

I texted a friend and asked if she wanted to go hiking that weekend. We did, and it was great! It was so refreshing and exactly what I needed. But it was a one-time event. So, the next day, when another friend asked me if I wanted to hike a 14er (mountain over 14,000 ft elevation), of course I said yes!

Yesterday was the day! I spent all week preparing by making sure I wasn’t staying up too late and gathering the things I would need for the hike (the outdoor education heart in me still beats strong…I can’t go for a big hike without being prepared). I woke up at about 2am, and off we went! Without going into the details, it was an awesome hike. Exhausting. But amazing. Looking DOWN at mountain ranges around you is pretty crazy.

My takeaway? We are in such a giving profession. It’s sometimes really good just to do something for yourself. I was able to set a goal and work toward it. I didn’t have time to think about school for a bit, because I was just focused on breathing and making it to the top of that mountain! As my friend said at the end, “My body is tired, but my heart is happy.” Don’t be afraid to prioritize yourself once in awhile!