Speed! Big word in the mountains that, Speed!

I'm not talking about some action movie with Keanu Reeves or Sandra Bullock of course.

Welcome to a new era, where the world is buzzing with progress and change, just like a thrilling blockbuster. We've moved past the challenging times of the past, leaving the COVID-19 pandemic as mostly a distant memory.

Our Operations Manager in Nepal, Anuj Pandey, who recently conquered the awe-inspiring Island Peak, told us during the pandemic that our entire team, including guides and staff in Nepal, received their vaccinations at an amazing speed! The pace at which they achieved this milestone was truly remarkable and uplifting!

Today, I want to keep the spirit of momentum alive as I share some important updates with you. As you may already know, I'm always drawn to powerful quotes that encapsulate profound messages. Speaking of which, let me introduce you to one of our additions at EverTrek HQ: a captivating image of Popeye the sailor man. While he may not be sailing the seas, the image portrays him behind the wheel of a speedy car. This image resonates deeply with me and aligns perfectly with the theme of our discussion today: speed.

"Your speed doesn't matter!'

'Forward is Forward'

The reason this hangs in the office is not my love for Popeye (Well he's pretty cool actually) but it's that it's one of the most important pieces of advice I could offer anyone on a trek. You don't need to speed off into the distance, leaving a trail of dust behind you.

Your speed really doesn't matter at all, as long as you are going forward, that's the key.

This rings true on your trek, with your trip preparation, and even your training. Don't feel like you have to smash it and run a half marathon every day in the build-up to your trip. If anything you might burn out that way. Instead, think about mixing it up with a bimble or a short walk a few times a week and then a big hike or a long run a few times a month.

Don't feel like you have to get all of your kit sorted in one hit. Get bits and pieces as you go. Spread it out a bit. If you're anything like me, I really enjoy the couple of weeks before a trip looking at what I need equipment-wise and it gets you properly excited for the trek.

Finally and the most important in a way, is your speed on a high altitude trek itself. You may have heard us talk about the Tortoise and the Hare where the slower you go at the beginning of a trek will benefit you when you reach the highest point. I've seen it time and time again!

So as you power on this month, keep moving, keep going and remember your speed doesn't matter, forward is forward! You will be surprised by how much you can accomplish by making small moves forward and progress each day instead of trying to do something fast and speedy.

The small moves forward each day adds up to BIG moves forward in the end. So enjoy your mountain adventures whatever you're up to in getting prepared for your next trip.

As always if you need anything reach out to any of the Yeti team and have an epic month

Keep EverTrekking

Andy