The Joy of Hobby: Life Lessons from Nature

 

 In a world that often feels overwhelming, where the demands of work and family can leave us feeling drained, finding joy through hobbies can be a lifeline. Hobbies not only provide an escape from our daily routines but also enrich our lives, giving us purpose and fulfilment. One of the most transformative experiences for me has been trekking, particularly my recent journey to the breathtaking heights of 14,600 feet. This trek was both challenging and exhilarating, as I faced the daunting reality of sudden altitude gain, which brought with it a mix of fear and excitement.

In India, many people hold a deep reverence for rivers, considering them sacred. The Ganges River, personified as the Goddess Ganga, is one such example, where devotees aspire to bathe at least once in their lifetime, believing it cleanses sins and purifies souls. Recently, I had the opportunity to trek to Gomukh and Tapovan, the origin of the Ganges, sitting at an altitude of 14,600 feet. This journey was incredible; witnessing rivers grow in magnitude as I progressed was awe-inspiring. The breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas made this trek a lifetime experience.

Every day began with the early morning ritual of waking at 4 AM, setting off as the sun rose and walking until sunset. Surprisingly, this rigorous routine never left me feeling tired; instead, it filled me with a profound sense of accomplishment. Each moment spent in nature, from the crisp morning air to the stunning landscapes, reminded me of the beauty surrounding us and the strength within ourselves. The experience of slipping into my tent at night, bundled in sleeping bags with temperatures plunging below freezing, was unlike anything I had ever encountered. It was a vivid reminder of how nature challenges us, pushing us out of our comfort zones in ways we never expected.

 In our corporate lives, we often navigate complex projects that test our resilience and adaptability. Just as trekking demands careful preparation, teamwork, and self-reliance, so too do our professional endeavours. Each step we take in nature mirrors the decisions we make in our careers, emphasizing the importance of foresight and collaboration. 

The lessons learned while trekking can easily translate into valuable skills in the workplace.

1. Preparing for Success: Just as every major project requires extensive preparation and foresight, so does trekking. It’s essential to have not just a Plan A, but also a Plan B and even a Plan C. Most joy comes from the preparation itself; developing both body and mind creates excitement as you engage with your goals. As the saying goes, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Thus, preparation is the key to success, and we must continuously invest in building our capabilities.
2. Teamwork: Life isn't just about individual accomplishments but about collaborating with others to achieve common goals. Supporting one another is far more rewarding than pursuing solo aspirations. Team success is built on mutual support. "Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision."
3. Self-Reliance: Your safety rests in your own hands as you navigate challenging trails. Understanding how your body adapts during the trek offers valuable lessons about self-reliance and resilience.
4. Trust Your Coach: A coach can help you realize your full potential, pushing you to step out of your comfort zone while providing the necessary support. Their experience is crucial for navigating challenges, just as a good guide does on the trek.
5. Embrace Diversity: Adaptability is vital when working with unfamiliar team members, facing unpredictable weather, and adjusting to new situations. Cultivating the ability to collaborate seamlessly with diverse teams is essential for success.
6. Ability to Work in Challenging Weather: Each day on the trek presents different difficulties, often influenced by unpredictable weather. Building stamina to handle tough conditions is a crucial part of personal development, as hardships often prepare ordinary people for extraordinary destinies.
7. Patience: When things go wrong, those who maintain focus and patience will ultimately succeed. Some goals require time and sustained effort. Swami Vivekananda wisely said, “If you have infinite patience and perseverance, success is bound to come.”
8. Flexibility: Don’t hesitate to delay or cancel a mission when conditions become extreme or when someone struggles. It’s essential to avoid unnecessary risks. Sometimes it’s better to pause and resume later when the situation improves.

Trekking offers a unique opportunity for self-reflection, encouraging us to seek out hobbies, nurture them, and build upon them. I firmly believe that joy can be cultivated through various interests; one simply needs to discover what they enjoy, start slowly, and gradually expand their pursuits. Years from now, when we look back on our journeys, these experiences will inspire us to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

So, as you reflect on your own life, consider: What hobbies ignite your passion? How do you push your limits in daily life? Are you allowing yourself the time to explore what truly brings you joy? Keep searching and follow your dreams! 😊