These photos capture a sunrise, high noon, and sunset during my recent backpacking trip in the Grand Tetons. I was in awe of how the mountains transformed as the sun moved across the sky, much like how my perspective evolved as I traversed the trail.
The mountains weren’t the only perspective that changed.
Hiking through the Grand Tetons offered some humbling moments. As I navigate midlife, I find myself grappling with rapid changes in my body. Each week or month brings a ‘new normal’ as I adapt to my body’s evolving abilities. This backcountry adventure tested my body’s (and my mind’s) mettle.
Life events won out over my summer training schedule.
I have had significant weight gain over the last two years.
I was the slowest hiker in this group.
Leading up to the trip and while on the trail, I noticed judgmental thoughts creeping in when my body didn’t perform as expected. Why was this? Hormonal changes are a natural part of life. I am blessed to have gotten to this stage of life. I am grateful that my body works, period! And yet, when I thought I was letting down the team or not pulling my weight the negative self-talk filled my head.
Albert Bandura introduced the concept of self-efficacy in 1997, and it has since been reinforced by numerous researchers. This concept of needing to believe in one’s own self to succeed has one crucial component: positive self- talk. It is positive self- talk that builds confidence amidst adversity.
Another concept Bandura offers is Social Learning Theory. It is possible to learn behaviors from others. Thankfully, I hiked with some amazing humans that created a safe space full of encouragement and support. Here, positive self-talk was modeled, and I could be vulnerable with the team.
I hiked 40 miles over three days and had over 9000 feet elevation gain. My body can still do hard things; it just may not look pretty in the moment. Thanking my body for all that it accomplished while in the backcountry helped to turn my mindset in the right direction. The accountability and support of the team got me through the hike.
Where in your life do you find yourself being your own worst critic? In what areas do you struggle with self-efficacy? If you’re seeking accountability and support on your health and wellness journey, feel free to DM me—I’m here to help.
~Wing Woman
Wing Woman 
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