Hiking the Na Pali Coast

I’m on the island of Kauai, sitting in a cottage at the edge of the sea on the north shore during a fabulous wind and rain storm. The waves are pounding the lava laden beach and the wind whistles through the jalousie windows.

We hiked along the Na Pali coastline this morning, through thick running mud and along surprise waterfalls. Each step was chosen with precision.

During that hike, I thought about you. And how each of those precarious steps, sometimes just inches from a straight drop to the cliffs below, were like the decisions we make in our businesses.

The balance of fun and safety was fluid.
Equally so between risk and caution.

It took a few hours to reach our destination several miles in and along the jungle coastline. We welcomed a simple lunch by a rushing river that started at the top of this rain forest, the wettest spot on the planet.

What I learned along the way, which also made me think about business, was this:

• use the right tools
• don’t carry unnecessary baggage (travel light and be ready to move!)
• take time to be inspired along the way with surprise miracles and magical moments
• don’t hold anyone back – it’s o.k. to let others pass you along the trail
• be true to your own pace
• rest often but don’t lose your momentum
• and travel with people you love.
• And above all, don’t quit because the final destination is worth every muddy step.

Back now watching the surf I can feel every muscle gleeful for the exertion.
My family naps and reads.
The majesty of one of God’s most inspiring and heavenly spots on earth is a new entry into my lifelong collection of memories.

And I am grateful for having done something most people never do and having learned more about what I am truly capable.

Be bold,
- Ann Vertel, UnitCoach

Tags: hiking, kauai, na pali