In case it's not obvious by my ghostly presence on Steemit in the last two weeks, I've been struggling with motivation…or rather, a lack thereof. I won't bore you with the reasons and causes, but I haven't had the motivation to do anything beyond what's absolutely necessary. A pile of unfolded laundry has been sitting on my couch for almost three weeks. Well, my laundry still isn't folded but I did join a gym this passed weekend.
No, I didn't join Planet Fitness or anything like that. I'm not that kind of gym rat. When I was in college I discovered that I had a passion for rock climbing. I started climbing at the gym on campus and eventually got a job there. Of all the jobs I've had, working at the rock wall is the only job that didn't feel like work. The climbing community in my college town was very welcoming to newcomers so it was easy to find climbing buddies, and I eventually started climbing outdoors.
Here are some photos from my first lead climb at King and Queen's Bluff in Clarksville, TN, along the Cumberland River. These photos were taken by a brave climbing acquaintance who decided to free climb halfway up the route WITH his fancy camera in hand.
I was pretty nervous. In fact, to this day I still hate lead climbing.
Here's what a charlie horse while climbing looks like:
Prior to this weekend it had been over two since climbing on a regular basis. For me it's not just a physical workout; it does something for my mind and spirit, makes me feel like I've accomplished something, and inspires to succeed in other areas of my life.
Since I am now paying for a month-to-month membership, there are no excuses. I hope this inspires you to get motivated and follow your passion.
Me in my new climbing home.
