Lessons from the Trail: How Hiking Mt. Mansfield Taught Me Resilience and Self-Compassion

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone

In the summer of 2021, I signed up for an adventure that would push me beyond my comfort zone—camping and hiking Vermont's highest peak, Mt. Mansfield, which reaches an elevation of 4,393 feet. I didn’t know anyone in the group, and the idea of camping rustically on a mountain with strangers stirred up a mix of excitement and nerves. To ease my anxiety, I asked my sister to join me. She agreed without hesitation, drawn to Vermont’s natural beauty after experiencing a spa hiking retreat there years prior.

This trip was more than just a weekend getaway; it was an opportunity to disconnect, challenge myself, and immerse in nature. My last big climb had been Bear Mountain in 2015, and while I had been hiking locally to train, I was balancing multiple jobs and needed this escape. The remote location promised peace, and the challenge ahead felt like exactly what my soul craved.

Facing Doubts Before the Climb

As the trip approached, my emotions shifted. Initially, I was excited—researching everything, gathering gear, and preparing as best as I could. But as the departure day neared, doubt crept in. Could I really do this? Was I crazy to camp on a mountain hours away with people I’d never met? What if something happened?

I reasoned with myself: the campsite fee was cheap, so canceling wouldn’t be a big loss. But then I asked myself a harder question—could I live with the regret of not trying? Would I sit at home wishing I had gone? The answer was clear. I couldn’t let fear win. Instead of focusing on what could go wrong, I shifted my mindset to what I would gain. I reminded myself that the hike had all levels of hikers and that the leader reassured me she wouldn’t leave anyone behind. That gave me confidence.

The Beauty and the Challenge

When it was finally time to travel to Vermont, I felt grateful to be sharing the experience with my sister. It became a bonding trip for us—we had each other’s backs from the start.

The hike itself was breathtaking. The lush green scenery popped against the cloudy sky, and the cool, crisp air of late August felt more like fall. Leaving behind a heatwave in New Jersey, I welcomed the seasonal shift. The trail was rocky, with large boulders that required strategic footing. I took my time, pacing myself alongside other hikers who also preferred a slower approach. The group naturally split into different speeds, but we all looked out for one another. It felt like a team effort.

One challenge I hadn’t anticipated was constantly adjusting my layers. My pack wasn’t large enough to store extra clothes comfortably, making temperature management tricky. This was one of many lessons I took from the hike—gear matters, and preparation is key.

Listening to My Body: Knowing When to Stop

As we climbed higher, approaching the treeline at around 3,000 feet, I started feeling lightheaded and dizzy. I stayed hydrated while hiking up the mountain, but I didn’t snack along the way. Was it the altitude? Did I not eat enough? Was I dehydrated? Likely, it was a mix of everything.

I had pushed my body hard, but as much as I wanted to reach the summit, I had to make a decision. I listened to what my body was telling me—I needed to stop. My sister and I turned back toward camp just as the rain began, a decision that, in hindsight, turned out to be the right one. We even managed to save everyone's firewood from getting soaked.

The Lesson in Letting Go of Expectations

At first, I wrestled with disappointment. I had set a goal, and I hadn’t reached the summit. But as I reflected, I realized that the real success wasn’t about making it to the top—it was about knowing when to listen to my body and adjust accordingly. Instead of dwelling on what I didn’t accomplish, I focused on what I gained: a deeper understanding of my limits, an appreciation for proper preparation, and the reassurance that I could push myself while also practicing self-compassion.

This experience mirrors the journey of starting therapy. Often, we try to navigate life’s challenges on our own—leaning on friends, researching solutions, or simply hoping things will get better. But sometimes, we realize we aren’t fully prepared to handle everything alone. Just like I sought advice from experienced hikers after this trip, people seek therapy when they recognize they need guidance to move forward.

One of the biggest lessons I learned that weekend was the importance of adaptability. Life, much like hiking, is unpredictable. Conditions change, obstacles arise, and our expectations don’t always align with reality. But with the right mindset, support system, and willingness to adjust, we can navigate any challenge that comes our way.

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Journey

Hiking has taught me resilience, patience, and the value of trusting the process. Sometimes, the path isn’t what we expected, and the summit remains just out of reach. But that doesn’t mean the journey wasn’t worthwhile. Every step teaches us something, and every challenge strengthens us for what’s ahead.

So whether it’s hiking a mountain or facing personal struggles, remember this: progress isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about learning, adapting, and continuing forward, no matter how slow the pace.

Take the Next Step

If you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next steps, you don’t have to navigate the journey alone. Just like having a supportive group on a challenging hike, having the right guidance in life makes all the difference. If you're ready to explore how therapy can help you build resilience and self-compassion, reach out today. Let’s take the next step together.