How to Do Hard Things: Lessons from Patagonia
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The winds of Patagonia don’t ask for permission. They howl, push, and sometimes knock you down. As I hiked through this rugged, untamed beauty alongside a group of kidney donors, I was reminded that life’s most rewarding journeys are often the hardest. Each step, each gust of wind, and each moment of doubt reinforced a truth that applies far beyond the trail: we can do hard things.
As the year winds down, many feel the pull to start fresh—committing to a health plan, revamping a fitness routine, or simply prioritizing wellness. Like trekking through Patagonia, these goals can feel daunting but are far from impossible. The lessons I learned on the trail mirror the path to health and wellness, and I want to share them with you.
1. Embrace the Challenge
Standing at the base of Patagonia’s towering peaks, I was struck by the enormity of the journey ahead. The trail was steep, the weather unpredictable, and the trek long. But I knew that avoiding the challenge would mean missing the reward waiting at the top.
Starting a health journey can feel just as overwhelming. Whether your goal is fat loss, muscle gain, or simply feeling better, the first step often feels the hardest. Instead of fearing the challenge, ask yourself: What if this is the moment that changes everything?
2. Break It Down
On tough days, thinking about the summit felt impossible. I learned to break the journey into smaller milestones: the next ridge, the next water break, and the next step. Progress felt more attainable one moment at a time.
The same approach applies to health. Instead of fixating on the big picture, start small. Add a serving of protein to your meals, commit to lifting weights twice a week, or drink more water each day. Small, consistent actions build momentum—and before you know it, you’re halfway to your goal.
3. Find Your Tribe
One of the greatest gifts of trekking Patagonia was the community I shared it with. Each of us had our struggles, but together, we laughed, encouraged one another, and leaned on each other to keep going.
Health journeys are no different—community matters. Find your tribe, whether it’s a workout buddy, a health coach, your significant other or a supportive online group. Surrounding yourself with like-minded people makes the hard things feel a little easier and a lot more rewarding.
4. Prepare for Setbacks
The trail wasn’t without its challenges: sore muscles, tired feet, unpredictable weather, and moments of doubt were constant companions. But setbacks didn’t define the journey; they were just a part of it.
In your health plan, setbacks will happen—cravings, missed workouts, or slow progress can feel discouraging. Remember, it’s not about being perfect; it’s about showing up. When you stumble, adjust, and keep moving forward. Progress isn’t linear, but it’s always worth it.
5. Celebrate the Wins
Reaching the base camp on Laguna de los Tres-Fitz Roy after a grueling climb brought unmatched joy. Each breathtaking view and shared laugh with my group was a reminder of why the effort mattered.
In your health journey, celebrate every win—big or small. Whether it’s having more energy, feeling stronger, or seeing progress in the mirror, these victories fuel your motivation to keep going.
6. Hold Tight to Your “Why”
On the hardest days of the trek, I reminded myself why I was there: to raise awareness for kidney donation, honor the gift of health, and challenge myself in ways I hadn’t before.
In health, your “why” is just as important. Maybe it’s your family, your future self, or simply the desire to feel good in your skin. Keep that reason front and center—it will carry you through the toughest moments.
From Patagonia to Your Health Journey
The beauty of doing hard things is that they change you. Patagonia pushed me physically, mentally, and emotionally. It reminded me that I’m stronger than I think and that the most meaningful journeys are the ones that stretch us.
As you consider starting your health journey, let these lessons guide you. It will be hard, and there will be days when you want to quit. But just like reaching the summit, the rewards—better health, more energy, and renewed confidence—are worth every step.
So, lace up your metaphorical boots, take that first step, and embrace the challenge. You can do hard things—and you don’t have to do them alone.
Let’s finish this year strong, together.