Lean into the hard things, they will make you stronger

Last month, I did a hard thing and my career is better for it.

I should expand and rephrase that statement. My dad did a hard thing and invited me to tag along. My dad turned 60 this year and requested an adventure as a birthday gift. His requirement was that the experience had to be something that he might not be able to accomplish by age 61. After some research, we settled on our trek.

My wife ( Natalie Asbach, PA-C ), my dad ( Ronald Asbach ), and I flew out to California and climbed Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the continental US. The hike started at 1 a.m. and didn't finish until 8 p.m. (plus a 4-hour drive back to the hotel) and tested all of us physically and emotionally. I have had a passion for hiking and mountain climbing my whole life, but through my professional role as a mental health provider, I've gained a whole new appreciation for my hobby.

Engaging in physically and emotionally demanding activities within controlled settings is a great way to develop and foster our psychological resilience. Developing resilience is a key component of emotional wellness, but also an important way to combat career burnout.

Let me explain:

Stress is an inherent part of our daily lives. While triggers of stress may be outside of our control, how we respond to stress is a learned skill. Intentionally stressing our bodies through challenging activities helps us build greater resilience.

Psychological resilience is the inner strength that enables us to bounce back from adversity and adapt to life's challenges. It's not just about surviving; it's about thriving in the face of setbacks. Resilience matters because it equips us with the mental tools to navigate uncertainty, stress, and change effectively. By embracing difficult challenges in controlled settings, we intentionally expose ourselves to discomfort, adversity, and stress. This deliberate practice allows us to build our resilience muscle gradually. It's akin to a workout for the mind; just as physical exercise strengthens our bodies, tackling hard tasks in controlled environments strengthens our psychological resilience.

Mountain climbing and hiking are powerful activities that contribute significantly to building psychological resilience. These outdoor adventures demand determination, patience, and mental fortitude. Scaling steep peaks or navigating challenging terrains exposes you to various stressors, from physical exhaustion to unpredictable weather conditions. However, the satisfaction that comes from conquering these obstacles fosters a sense of accomplishment and self-belief. When one frequently encounters and overcomes difficult situations, it reinforces an internal locus of control, meaning a belief that one is in control of their own circumstances and destiny. Conversely, an external locus of control (a feeling that one is not in control of their circumstances) is associated with low resilience.

The solitude and serenity of nature often encountered in mountainous regions provide an opportunity for introspection and mindfulness, which can enhance emotional regulation and stress-coping skills. The lessons learned in the mountains, such as setting goals, managing risk, and pushing one's limits, are directly transferable to everyday life. Mountain climbing and hiking are not only thrilling recreational activities but also effective tools for developing the psychological resilience needed to tackle life's toughest challenges.

While hiking and outdoor activities are the way I build my resilience, there are many different paths. Participation in sports and other competitive activities is another great way to push yourself mentally and physically. Fitness programs like CrossFit build in goals and competition that can drive greater resilience through physical and mental stress. Everyone may be drawn to different activities, but the key is to not shy away from the hard things, both professionally and recreationally. Pursuing a hobby that pushes you is a great way to remain physically and mentally fit, but also prepares your mind for future adversities and trials.

Maybe I'll even see you on the mountain next time. Dad is already talking about next year's epic adventure (maybe Yosemite Half Dome?).

Climb high and rest easy,

Michael Asbach

Frank's Financial Corner - with Frank Randall, MPA

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