So much to do, is there enough time? And do I know all of the things that I should focus on versus all of the things I want to focus on (like there is SO much cool gear I could buy!)?
With less than four months until my big challenge, I continue to find myself wondering if I have enough time to prepare to a level where I can succeed, and if I'm thinking about the right stuff. Each glance at the calendar serves as a reminder that the date looms closer—not only exciting me but maybe also making me a bit anxious. The last thing I want to be known as is "that old guy with cool gear that couldn't survive the summer as a Ranger." After all, I'm not doing it for the money (or the food), and it won't be much of a consolation if I wash out.
Ok, so in today's "modern" times, it seems that AI should be a great source for ideas and guidance. So I asked CoPilot (by Microsoft!) what it thinks I should do. Imagine my surprise when it arrived at ELEVEN focus areas and some additional tips. Yeah, I could be sunk. Here they are:
Leadership and Group Management
Backcountry Cooking and Hygiene
Bear Bagging and Wildlife Safety
Physical Conditioning
Navigation and Orienteering
First Aid and Emergency Response
Teaching and Mentorship Skills
Gear Proficiency
Environmental Knowledge
Mental Preparation
Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusivity
Wow. And as for additional "tips" CoPilot suggested I focus on Weather Readiness, Storytelling & Campfire Entertainment, and Personal Health. To its credit, at the very end of a long response to my question, CoPilot ended with an interesting insight:
"By the way, have you thought about any personal goals you want to achieve during this experience? Sometimes setting a personal intention can make the journey even more fulfilling."
Thanks CoPilot, no, I hadn't considered that. 🙄 Again, not in it for the money (or the glory).
ChatGPT was a bit more conservative in its response, but some clear consistencies between them.
Preparing will be no small feat, but I’m glad I reached out for guidance; it did give me some more things to think about (how can I dazzle them with BS if I cannot wow them with my hiking prowess?). However, it became really clear that focusing on both strength training and aerobic conditioning will be crucial in helping me meet my goals (I'm confident I am pretty good at the other "softer" skills). While I will take the AI advice and think about enhancing some of the other skills identified, I feel like I have a bit of a leg up on these and should focus for now skills that keep me from collapsing into the fetal position sucking my thumb on the trail in front of a bunch of (young) scouts.
Living in the Piedmont region of North Carolina has its own specific challenges. While Liz and I love much about where we are currently living, elevation training is limited; there are no rocky mountains nearby. In fact, Wikipedia offers this thought about this region: "The geography of the Piedmont primarily consists of rolling hills." Darn. This has pushed me to think creatively about my workout routine (what's the greatest incline on that treadmill, how many times do I need to hike that rolling hill to simulate the Tooth of Time?). I’d established some initial goals, started some training, but they felt a bit tentative at first. Now, it's time to take ambitious action.
So I’ve laid out a training schedule, designating days for strength workouts, cardio sessions, and recovery time, and working in a bit of pickleball when I can. Like any attempt at fitness, this structured approach allows me to maximize my training without becoming overwhelmed, and will provide the right focus. Also, I’m making sure to incorporate mental conditioning through techniques like visualization, since I did learn on my previous treks that it can be more of a mental game to succeed at Philmont versus the purely physical game. This is new to me, I'll let you know how it goes.
Ultimately, I know that regardless of the time left, I must make the most of it, anything will be better than nothing. I feel better that I am taking the first steps of my training (pun intended, sorry!) and embracing the journey. The thrill of expanding my skills and pushing my boundaries keeps me excited, and getting in better shape doesn't hurt, even as the deadline approaches.
As the days tick down, my dedication to this journey shall not falter!. It may feel daunting at times, but with focus and determination, I genuinely believe I can hit my goal.
Now, it’s time to lace up those boots and get to work!
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