Achieving Success

Posted on September 10, 2023 Tags:
Claudia and dogs overlooking Loch Ness.

Achieving success looks different for each one of us. In fact, one of the first things I discuss with potential clients is what success looks like for them. It’s important they know they’ve got what they came for. It’s setting up the parameter to measure the coaching and achieving success with it. 

This week I achieved success: I arrived in Inverness. Having hiked 955km (594 miles) from the Cotswolds to the Highlands. From an idea I had early in the year of just giving it all up and starting to walk to arriving. And now? 

You may recall that last week’s blog was about being at the crossroads. A big decision was looming: what’s next? I have contemplated that question for a few weeks already, but it wasn’t until the last few days that I found clarity for myself. 

My initial idea was to hike back. A different route, taking in the Lake District and walking down Offa Dyke’s Path on the border with Wales. This would easily take another six weeks to complete. 

Part of me really wants to do it. It’s saying “you’ve just done half”. But there are a few factors that give me confidence in my reply of “no, we’re done. For now.” To me, achieving success isn’t done on the back of others. 

In this case: my dogs. 

They’ve been tired over the last week especially, mostly because of the large, sharp gravel stones that are often used to keep footpaths visible and safe. They’re not great for paws (nor for feet to be honest). 

Achieving Success from a different perspective 

The Big Hike was intended as a lifestyle change. Indeed, I had planned not to return to “domestic” life but join the many digital nomads. However, the system we live in isn’t adjusted to that lifestyle (yet?). You still need a postal address. 

So, another way I’ve been achieving success is by finding new value in that system: having a washing machine, space for all my kit; different clothes (think the first thing I’ll do when I get home is put on a dress). Being able to make my own food (and going back to a paleo diet). Having a safe space and a dry space when the dogs and I come home from a walk. And having community. Friends. The choir! 

When I set out I had multiple reasons to go: finding myself, finding out what I wanted to do, where I wanted to live, how I wanted to engage with others, and generally slowing down and appreciating the world around me. What wasn’t on my list was achieving success! 

Once I let go of control (trying to make everything happen just so in my life) I get the most amazing experiences, ideas, people, and everything I need to be happy. And successful. 

Possibly, that’s been the most important lesson of the Big Hike: I will be provided for if I just let go and believe.

Final tally for the Big Hike: 955km (594 miles). 

BUT: we’re still walking every day. Not to reach a destination but for the pleasure of walking and engaging in nature. And we (the dogs and I) are inviting you along to walk with us. 

If you’d like to know more about my approach to life, career, and coaching, let’s connect on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/claudia.unger.58958). 

And if you’ve got a career or life challenge that you’d like to discuss, you’re welcome to book a free 15-minute coaching session here: https://wanderlustcoach.as.me