Are you ready to inject new feelings and experiences into your life, but don’t know how? Is fear stopping you from trying new things and making changes in your life? Do you wonder what another way of being might feel like? If you answered, “ yes “, to any of those questions, this blog is for you. Keep reading and discover how to change your life, simply by trying new things.

My Story

As many of my followers know, my life has changed dramatically in the past couple years. Some of it was hard, some easy, some unplanned, and some anticipated. Regardless of how or why, I am in a good place, feeling centered and strong.

I’m ready to expand my world in the way that resonates best with me, physically and spiritually. I want deep connections and great communication. This is exactly what I got in my recent adventure.

A couple days ago I decided to hike up to a trail that traverses high on a mountain range. There is not an easy access point that I have found, so I basically hike up washes and pick the seemingly easiest approach. I am guaranteed to get some cuts and scratches from the rough terrain and the plants and trees that I scramble through.

The past forest fire and flooding created a landscape where the Earth speaks loudly to me.

When I go on unknown trails, or adventures that have a little risk to them, I always let a couple people know my plan, just in case.

On this particular day I left my house around 7:30 in the morning. We are in monsoon season, but the storms don’t usually roll through until the afternoon. My weather app promised sunshine. I had food, water, and my phone.

I made it to the trail in an hour and forty five minutes, it was the fastest and easiest accent yet. The crux so far was pulling myself up the last 10 feet, its steep, deep scree and every step you take slides you back down. I had to find rocks and plants anchored in the ground strong enough to hold my body weight.

At the top, it was beautiful. I decided to get more miles before I turned around. I was happy to get ten miles that morning.  I noticed very dark and ominous clouds had formed higher up the mountain. I wasn’t too concerned, but recognized the black cloud as a sign to head home.

Stepping off the trail into the deep scree, I slid and tried to maintain balance. I noticed old rusty barbed wire was partly hidden in the rocks. I stepped over the sharp mess and started trotting down the steep mountain side. I felt a raindrop, but still wasn’t concerned.

In about five minutes my world changed. Seemingly out of nowhere an intense lightning storm had gathered and was right behind me. I started running as fast as I could to get off the mountain and into a wash.  I was hoping my footing would be easier and I would be at a lower elevation. Basically I was seeking the path that water flows off the mountain.

In the wash I was the highest thing around. I was definitely starting to get scared, the lightning was all around me and I was being pelted by rain. I slowed down just long enough to call someone and let them know what was going on. Mostly I wanted to talk with someone for reassurance. I was out there completely by myself. Another human would have been great. I got voice mail, but sharing my crazy experience gave me a tiny bit of reassurance.

Still above the tree line, I basically ran the path of least resistance. I wasn’t paying attention to much of anything, except getting off the mountain. I was running through bushes and hopping over bigger rocks.

In my mind, I’m thinking, what the f*ck am I doing. I am 58 years old. This behavior was all and good when I was younger, but should I dial it back? I was also praying for my safety.

As the storm raged on and the lightning felt closer than ever, I mis-stepped and crashed into the rocks below. The impact was hard enough for my apple watch to alarm.  I noticed my leg was bleeding, but I was more surprised than hurt.

A couple minutes later my phone was sending out an alert for flash flooding in my area. This was great news! Not really. I was still moving through the washes, because like water, I wanted the easiest path down.

I made it to the trees, where I followed a deer trail. Soon there would be houses. Eventually I saw a man in his backyard securing loose things. I yelled over the wind and rain, seeking shelter from the storm.

I’m sure I looked like a scene from a horror movie. I was scratched, cut, bleeding and completely soaked. This is how I met my neighbor, about half a mile from my house. He kindly drove me home and we exchanged phone numbers.

The rest of the day I had adrenaline running through my body. I had been crazy scared, but made it home safely. I also learned the importance of better weather apps.

I got exactly what I wanted, intense connection and clear communication with the Universe. I was touched to the core.

How To Discover A New Way Of Being By Challenging Yourself

Having a healthy daily practice, like meditation, that keeps you grounded and centered when you try new things is important. Every time you commit to your practice, it’s like coming home to a safe place. This is restorative and empowering.

What’s your reason for seeking new things? Is it expansive, safe and healthy?

How far out of your comfort zone is your planned undertaking? Make sure to have something that you are comfortable with, woven into your plan. 

Have some of your strengths woven into your plan. For example it’s easy going out on a trail, but I choose a challenging experience to do alone.

Keep your perspective of different choices and possibilities open. There are countless new experiences waiting for you.

Think about what gets you excited about life.  How can you bring more of that into your world, with a new experience?

Celebrate all your wins. Every time you are willing to take a chance on yourself, it is a win. Holding in your heart the possibilities of your best life will get you there.

Have a safety plan. How can you step out of your adventure, if it doesn’t feel safe? Who are you sharing your plan with? Always stay safe emotionally and physically.

Wrapping It Up

I will continue my solo trail adventures, but with a little more caution. This brings me joy and is an important part of my life. I recognize every time I say yes to adventure, I’m saying yes to my best life. I know the changes I create in one part of my life adds a spark of joy and inspiration in all of my life.

Whether you are entering a new career, dating world, or moving out of the country, I encourage you to take a risk, challenge yourself, and live your best life. You have the freedom to choose what resonates with your joy. If you fall down, pick yourself up, reflect on what you learned, and when you are ready, adventure waits for you.

Is it time to create your best life? If you answered, “ yes”, reach out to me at Pollywirum.com. Together we can make a plan that is aligned with the life changes you want to experience. Thank you for reading and touch a little joy today:)