5 Reasons to Take an Entrepreneur Hike
As a business coach, I often work with entrepreneurs who are ready to take a hike from their businesses. They go through patches where their energy is exhausted, they are stressed out, and they are ready to pack it all in. My advice to my business coaching clients and everyone within earshot, for that matter, is to take a hike before you take a hike from your business.
Rediscovering the adventure in business is essential for entrepreneurs who may feel bogged down by routine and stress. One effective way to reignite that sense of adventure is to take a hike in nature. Here are five reasons why we at addVentures Business Club believe that stepping into the great outdoors can refresh, revive and rejuvenate our entrepreneur’s spirit and creativity.
1. Connecting with nature will boost your creativity
Being in nature has a massive impact on creativity. Studies show that spending time outdoors can lead to increased cognitive function and problem-solving abilities. When I feel bogged down by the deadlines that I am facing on a daily basis, there is nothing that gives my creativity levels a boost than going for a hike in the amazing koppies in our area.
The tranquillity and beauty of natural surroundings allow entrepreneurs to step away from their daily grind, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges they face in their business. This shift in the environment can spark innovative ideas and solutions that may not have emerged while stuck in an office setting.
2. Physical activity will lower your stress levels
Have you ever felt like strangling someone at work? Before you send the cops, this is figuratively spoken! Hiking is a sure form to get your cortisol levels down. No one can function if the stress is too intense. Going for a hike is an easy form of physical exercise that releases endorphins, which helps to keep those stress and anxiety demons at bay!
The reality is that if you cannot manage your stress levels, your focus will be all over the show, and your productivity levels will be as low as the sugar rating at a Weight Watchers Conference! Exercise is the number one way to reduce stress levels in an instant, and you don’t even have to sweat too much! Engaging in outdoor activities not only promotes physical health but also contributes to mental well-being, allowing entrepreneurs to return to their work with renewed energy and clarity.
3. Replace your challenges
I often discuss the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and how we sometimes feel like we are on a Jeep drive over the rockiest parts of the Drakensberg. Getting out of the Jeep and onto the trails with your tekkies or hiking boots will help you to replace the challenges of work with the challenges you are facing on the trail.
There is nothing as magical as forgetting about all your challenges at work, even if it is only for a brief moment in time. Giving yourself that break refresh and rejuvenate your mind for you to tackle those business challenges as if it was breakfast!
The clever people believe that overcoming physical challenges during a hike can mirror the mental hurdles faced in business, reinforcing the mindset needed to tackle setbacks and persevere towards goals. This parallel can help entrepreneurs develop a stronger sense of determination and adaptability. Who am I to argue with such high-falutin words? I know it works from my personal experience!
4. Build a Network of Happy Entrepreneurs
Hiking often involves companionship, whether with friends or your fellow adventurers. the life of an entrepreneur is often a very lonely place. You seldom have the opportunity to really connect with people. Something magical happens to me when I am out in nature busy exercising. After the first kilometer I find that the conversation opens up like a flower in springtime.
I have had many meaningful conversations with people I hardly new before the hike. I have even had deep conversations with people that I have known for many years, but never spoke more than ten words to them previously.
This social aspect is vital for entrepreneurs who always benefit from community support. Sharing experiences on the trail creates connections that can translate into business relationships for many years to come. How does the saying goes: “Those who suffer together, stay together.”
5. Reconnect Passion & Purpose
When last did you wake up with a feeling of ‘oh shit, I have screwed up?’ I bet you this was not the morning after a hike! When we take time to hike, it allows us to reflect on our journey and reconnects us with our original passion for our business ventures.
The peacefulness of nature provides space for introspection, enabling us to reassess our goals, values, and motivations. Essentially this is one of the best ways to reignite the fire needed to pursue our entrepreneurial dreams with the enthusiasm it deserves.
addVenture Hike Expeditions
I am constantly asked about my adventures and how I can get introduced to the wonderful world of hiking and/or trail running. For this reason, we have decided to start with a monthly addVentures Hike. Our first hike will be in Klipriversberg Nature Reserve or Klippies for short in the South of Joburg.
We will tailor the hike for various fitness levels, so let us know what you can and cannot manage. We want the experience to be magical and not a drag!
We love ‘koffie and biscuit’, so you will be treated to a coffee and homemade rusk break on the route. We’ll give some history briefs on the Marais family of Klipriviersberg and you will have lots of opportunity to identify the local fauna & flora.
Remember to bring your camera. If photography excites you, you will have ample opportunity to take amazing photos. Otherwise, we will be taking lots of photos for your memory box.
Space is limited, so ensure that you make a booking ASAP to avoid disappointment!
PS: Can’t make it to our Klipriviersberg Entrepreneur Hike? Give us a shout, so that we know where else we can organise a hike for you to connect with nature, yourself and fellow entrepreneurs.
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