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Bravery/ Happiness/ Health Tips/ Love & Relationships/ Zesty Adventures

The Ideal Life: Going once, Going twice

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You have one chance before it’s gone

Given the chance to buy an ideal life on eBay, many people would probably choose the one containing money & success. Yet, as studies have revealed, these two factors have little effect on true happiness and satisfaction in life.

So, what really matters at the end? In one of the most comprehensive longitudinal studies ever done, researchers of the Harvard Grant Study followed 724 men for over 75 years and have found the secret… Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Happiness/ Zesty Adventures

Let It All Hang Out. Zero F***’s Given

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Stop thinking about what they’re thinking

If you’re feeling particularly fragile today, you might not want to read on. It’s okay, I’m not offended. You know why? Because I could care less what you think of me, my ideas, opinions and lifestyle… It’s not about you. Get over yourself.

An unbelievable chunk of our life is spent striving for acceptance. No matter who we are, where in life we are, we want to be accepted by others. If we’re not getting acceptance, we feel rejected. The problem is that this prevents us from doing the things we want to do, and it shuts down who we truly are. What if you decided to say f*** that. What if you cancelled your subscription to playing for the audience and decided that you were going to be 100% yourself for a change? Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Happiness/ Meaning & Passion/ Zesty Adventures

Beyond the Treeline: The Courage to Stand Alone

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Reach new heights

Much like the tallest tree in the forest, when you stand out from the rest, you’re at risk of exposing yourself to the most resistance. We learn early in life that fitting in keeps us safe. But what we don’t realize is that while being unremarkable may keep us below the turbulence, it doesn’t allow us to grow, to reach new heights, and to see beyond our limitations; and it doesn’t usually lead to happiness or satisfaction. Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Meaning & Passion/ Perseverance/ Zesty Adventures

Am I Out of the Woods Yet?

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Get lost to get found

In a forest, I am lost among the trees: or am I suddenly found in a brilliant moment of clarity?

We don’t solve problems—problems solve us. They help us piece together who we are, requiring us to continually stretch beyond our comfort zone and confront our psyche. Every experience and interaction has the potential to help us grow—if we allow it. Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Mountain Life/ Perseverance/ Zesty Adventures

Mind Over Matter: Head first into grit

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Head first into grit

Nearing the end my ride, I veer off into the berms for a little practice before finishing up. I focus on outside foot pressure as I rail some turns and pickup speed. My mind is a little hung up on technique and not focused on the trail conditions…

Before I could correct, my front tire washes out in the loose gravel and I get ejected over the bars. CRACK! Direct impact on my shoulder! “That didn’t sound good.” I said to Kula who was frantically racing around me as I lay on the trail. Jumping to my feet, I wheel my bike one-handed down the last few turns—I knew I needed to get down the trail before the adrenaline wore off. Fortunately I came upon a guy who offered to load my bike on the car for me. “Do you want me to call an ambulance?” he asked. “No, that’ll be $80 bucks! I’ll call a friend thanks.”

Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Career/ Zesty Adventures

Riding Solo: Navigating the anxieties of solitude

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In solitude you’ll find answers

Venturing into the woods, I lose sight of civilization and settle into the peaceful sounds of nature. I am in charge of my ride plan, my rhythm and my pace.

I absolutely love riding my bike alone (well, usually with my sidekick Kula!). When on a solo ride, I notice my stress decrease and I shift into a peaceful state of consciousness. When you’re silent you begin to see your thoughts for what they really are—just thoughts. I can ponder life’s meaning, connect with the sensations in my body, and be in total flow with the trail. Continue Reading…

Bravery/ Career/ Happiness/ Zesty Adventures

Happiness: Striving towards your potential

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I scream, you scream, why give up your pipe dream!

I called my brother last night, and when he answered he sounded like a giddy kid who was just handed a triple-scoop bubblegum ice cream cone. “Gord, you sound really happy bro, what’s new?” I asked. “I’m so happy Rachelle! My business is booming, I’m doing exciting work and having a blast!”

It’s so beautiful to watch people thriving in their element… Since having the guts to quit his talent-limiting career situation a year ago, Gord has since combined his knack for technology with his passion for people, and baked these ingredients into a rewarding entrepreneurial venture. Continue Reading…