Nothing compares to a day of hiking... specially as it reminds me of a day at work

I love hiking. My family loves hiking. Saying we love it is an understatement. The reasons abound, but if you don't practice it, I can summarize them as follows:

• Connection with nature
• Connection with yourself
• Physical and mental fitness
• Stress relief
• Weight management (and Oh, God, I need it!)
• Increased vitamin D exposure

For me, it all started with an invitation from a good friend for a family experience just 7 years ago. And that invitation sparked the flame for my children to practice it, with or without me!

And being myself, I find many analogies between a good Saturday hiking 6 km uphill and time at work in the manufacturing plant (although I've never lacked imagination to find analogous situations). And, if you allow me, I can present some of them.

1 - Hiking requires a target and proper planning, just like business. You don't just get on the mountain and start walking. You get the proper attire and supplies and start measuring your time and mileage, among other 'KPIs.'

2 - Climbing up is tough, very tough. Especially when you start. Just like any new project when you go against the status quo. And no matter how hard you try, the top seems tough to reach.

3 - The air becomes thinner as you go higher and higher. And yes, sometimes you are lonely at the top. Sounds familiar?

4 - When coming back down, you would think things will be easier. Well, they might be, but not much (Ask your knees). Soont you′ll realize how far and how long you walked up. Incredible...

Regardless of the similarities, I love hiking because it allows me to reflect and generate new ideas, new projects. There's nothing better than coming back tired but with a list of tasks for the office or home!

Look deep into nature and you will understand everything better. –?Albert Einstein

Some people love fishing and some other play golf to get in contact with nature. I guess I′ll take some time to compare them to business, that′s me. In the meantime, take some chances. Drive for a while and pick your hill, I bet you will feel better and will come with some great ideas in the process!

Here′s the trailer of a great movie about the Pacific Crest Trail that I really enjoyed and recommend if you are into hiking: