As an outdoor instructor, I often find myself in situations where I am encouraging clients to push themselves. Generally, I work with school groups and it always amazes me how often the accompanying teacher encourages their kids to challenge themselves and then not be willing to do the same themselves. More often than not, opting to be the ‘official photographer’, but why? “Because I’m too old.”
Scared
The older that we become, the more we are exposed to the myth of being ‘too old’ because this is more acceptable to say than “I’m too scared…” We have this belief instilled in us from such a young age. If kids hear adults saying this all the time, then what kind of message does this communicate?
Does this mean that: When you are older you can’t push yourself? You can’t venture outside? You can’t have fun? It’s ok to make excuses and give up if something looks a bit difficult?
It’s time to be honest with ourselves!
Instead of saying that you are too old, be honest. If you are apprehensive about something, it is ok to say that. Acknowledge it if you do not want to aggravate an old injury. If you would feel self-conscious, then admit it. Isn’t this a better example to set for those who look up to us? These reasons are also variables which we can learn to manage too! Which means, that within reason we can make adaptations so that we can still have these life affirming experiences.
Adapting the challenges
There are many ways that we can adapt these challenges to something more appropriate. Consider doing things gradually. This way it can still be a challenge but then it won’t feel impossible.
“A ship in harbour is safe— but that is not what ships are built for.”
John A. Shedd
Beyond the comfort zone
So, what is really holding you back from your next (or first) survival adventure. If life was about staying in your comfort zone then the world would be a boring place and no progress would ever be made. I’m not suggesting that you should be pushing yourself to the limit constantly, like some hyped up redbull sponsored athlete but I am encouraging you to try things instead of wishing you had.
Solo wildcamp
Want to get out on a solo wildcamp but not sure where to start?
Consider staying at a campsite with some friends first, then gradually branch out further. From your own backyard to the local countryside, before you know it you could be camping amongst vast mountain ranges or sheltering in caves.
River journey
Want to do a river journey? Do some smaller journeys first, build up the skills, join a club, pack a camera, get ready for the experience of a lifetime.
Its all about laying the foundations. Increase your experience, build up your skills. The fastest way of doing that is not just by reading about it but going out and doing it. We all have to start somewhere…so start.
One of the best bits about being an Outdoor instructor is seeing the faces of those who have just pushed themselves.
Pride. Achievement. A change in how they see themselves and quite often a desire to repeat that same experience. The more they push themselves the greater the sense of achievement. There is no reason why this sense of achievement should be reserved for the ‘young’
So the question still remains…
Are you really too old?
About the Author
Niall Stone works as an Outdoor Activity Instructor in Wrexham, North Wales.
For many years Niall has had an interest in developing people and believes that outdoor pursuits are a great catalyst for this. He has been developing these skills for over 10 years through rock climbing, mountaineering and canoeing.
When he is not outside, he is developing Instructor 101, which provides resources for like minded outdoor instructors who want to have an even greater impact.
Instagram: @instructor101
Facebook: @the101instructor
complete nonsense. I have been a bushcrafter from 14 uptill 35 yrs old. Then i gave it up since my husband preferred hotels amd resorts. At age 56 i renewed my love for bushcraft and i m still expending my knowledge and skills and sometimes helping others who have less experience. I am now a 59 years old middleaged woman. And i will be praticing bushcraft until the day i die.