Mindset Monday - Peaks & Valleys
“All of life is peaks and valleys. Don’t let the peaks get too high and the valleys too low.” – John Wooden
I am about 10 days out from this year’s Misogi. The Misogi, is an ancient Japanese practice involving purifying the mind, body, and spirit through physical and mental challenges. In samurai tradition, it helps warriors build mental clarity and gain a deeper understanding of themselves by pushing their limits. Each year I select one big thing during the year. This year I am climbing Mt. Rainier in Washington state. With the potential shifting winds in the economy and our business, the concept of the climb and its peaks and valleys felt fitting.
Our entire lives are spent climbing mountains, seeking our own personal summits. Something that we seem to consistently lose sight of is that the summit is never the final destination. It is a stop on the path, and inevitably to get to the next peak, you will descend back into the valley before you start your next summit bid. It is impossible to find your next summit without crossing through the valley.
The climbers that navigate the treacherous path down survive to seek the next summit. 80% of all climbing accidents happen on the way down the mountain. Our hubris tells us that we have been to the top, and the work is complete. So the descent is rushed, it’s easy to lose our footing, or rely on the safety rope too much. Navigating your way down is the difference between arriving safely at the valley floor, and walking yourself off of a cliff. We aren’t as prepared for the route down as we trained and conditioned ourselves for the climb. We see the way down as out of our control, and if we aren’t careful it can get out of control quickly.
On the valley floor, the climber who makes the most of their time there will be the first to find the next summit. That climber is often renewed, and better equipped to go even farther during the next weather window. The climber that gathers supplies, sharpens their skills, maintains a positive mindset fixed on the next peak, is the first out of camp, and the first to plant their flag at the top.
We are also quick to forget that the route up is hard, full of its own struggle. The excitement from our moment on the previous summit makes you forget it. The struggle in the valley makes you forget it. Remember that the route to the top will come with its own challenges, new challenges. Your struggle will quickly shift from the low point of the valley to dealing with the steep rock wall in front of you, the gear you forgot how to use, and the burn in your lungs you forgot about.
It looks like we may have our weather window soon. Take time to prepare for the climb. Also remember that each climb comes with its own challenges and that the shift in the weather that signals the start of your climb, is likely signaling the decent for someone else. Those clouds may have moved off of you, and they now find themselves above others. Be ready to take on the challenges that the mountain will throw at you. Familiarize yourself with the route, the plan, and your gear.
Side quest: Its fun to think about and select a Misogi. It gives you something to shoot for and prepare for during the year, which makes you better in all aspects. I would challenge you to pick one big thing/event/challenge that will define your year, put it on the calendar, and get after it.
See you at the top!
Written by Chris Catania
Chris Catania entered the mortgage industry in 2005. As a seasoned Branch Manager and coach at Fairway, Chris has consistently been at the forefront of providing, creative problem solving, exceptional service and tailored financial solutions. His commitment to excellence and deep understanding of the mortgage landscape have made him a trusted advisor and a leading figure in the field.
Beyond his professional achievements, Chris is a Army veteran, devoted husband and father. He is an avid outdoorsman and hunter. Chris also brings his leadership experience and skills to the community as a coach, where he mentors individuals, teaching them the values of teamwork, discipline, accountability and perseverance. Chris Catania's blend of professional acumen, family dedication, and community involvement truly sets him apart as a respected professional and valued community member.
