Last month an intriguing path called to me in the red rocks of Sedona. I noticed it from above and saw that it wound around a hill and went off into the distance. I knew nothing about it, where it went, how long it was, how difficult. Up until then I had researched all of my trails and was fully prepared. Why was this one different and why was it calling me?
So without consulting the information board, a trail map, or anyone around, three of us set off. It soon became uncomfortable for one of our party and she took a familiar path to the car to wait.
Two of us continued on the “Airport Loop Trail”. I knew the airport wasn’t far and that our transportation was parked nearby. Certainly this would be a fun, surprising adventure.
But the path took us away from our destination. We heard planes, even saw them, but couldn’t reach the airport. Along the way was a 360 degree view of Sedona. Very interesting and beautiful, but there was a nagging worry in our minds.
How long was this going to take? Did we have enough water? What about our friend who was waiting? Where did it end?
Without our sense of urgency, we could have eased into the process.. enjoyed the walk.. the newness.. the journey. But we kept wondering how much longer, where are we going, what will we find?
Our experience reminds me of negotiating life change. We may be attracted to something, but not have much information. It looks intriguing from a distance, but there are no guarantees of what you’ll find. You may not know how to get started and where to turn. There is no map.
Some of us dream from afar and never take the first step. Others jump right in and find they are missing a parachute. Patty was like that. She felt stuck in a job that brought more stress than joy. To take a break she traveled to Portland, Oregon where she refreshed in the laid back, natural atmosphere. Upon return home, Patty gave notice and started looking for a job and housing in Portland.
As she delved more deeply into the process, Patty learned that Portland job opportunities were limited in her field. People were more highly educated and experienced. The pay was less, yet the rents were comparable to home. Now Patty had created additional stress instead of escaping it.
What Patty lacked was a clear vision, information, and a strategic life plan. Often when we reach the tipping point for change, we want it to happen fast. We fail to look at all sides. We know we don’t like where we are and think anywhere else will be better. And yet that new situation may not fulfill us either. How can we know for sure? We want that guarantee that we’ve found the correct fit.
“Being at ease with not knowing is crucial for answers to come to you”
Eckhart Tolle
How much can we really predict and be sure of? How much unknown can we tolerate? I didn’t know until I was well on that trail that I would like it, that I could do it. And I had no guarantee that the path at the beginning would stay the same. What if the terrain changed and it became too difficult. What if it ended abruptly, what if the steepness became overwhelming?
Even with our research, surprises happen. How will you prepare for those surprises? When do we turn around, when do we call for help, when do we change direction?
Some tools to help when you’re in unknown territory:
A belief in yourself
A trust in the process
Flexibility when the unexpected occurs
Willingness to ask for help
Gratitude for the opportunity
As far as the hike, we did reach the end of four miles and our friend was waiting for us. We’d do it again, but this time we’d be better prepared.
Happy adventures and see you on the path!
