Adventure Coaching Blog

Shegar and Shewee

Sat, 04 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Shegar and Shewee

Today we have been having an altitude acclimatization day at 4400 meters (which is around 15,500 ft). So we went on a short walk above the ancient walled city of Shegar. I turned on the spot tracker so you may be ale to follow that on the map.

We made our gradual puffing way up to the top of a rocky outcrop which was decked out in a sea of prayer flags. As we plodded up we got a distant glimpse of Mt Everest which got everyone excited.

The thing about acclimatization is that how you are feeling is always changing. One minute I was feeling great and moving strongly. The next minute I felt queasy and lurching for air. I've been learning that the important thing is to simply notice what's going on and not get too worried as there is no doubt that things will change. Come to think of it this applies across a huge range of daily issues not just at 4400 meters.

Today's big event was the inaugural use of the "shewee". This device enables me not to have to bare my buttocks when I need to pee (ok I realize that for some of you this is far too much information!). Anyway things appeared to be going swimmingly until to my horror I detected a renegade stream coming out my left trouser leg! Gravity had beaten me. All was not lost as I discovered that black trousers hide an otherwise embarrassing appearance. Back at the hotel I vowed not to give up. It is proving one of the more unusual challenges of the expedition.

Tomorrow we head to our road end base camp. So tonight we are enjoying our last shower and comfy bed for the next 4 weeks. So when you have your next shower imagine it is your last until early October and see what difference it makes!

Cheers Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 4th September, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Altitude, Adventure, Cho Oyu

Acclimatisation really begins

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Acclimatisation really begins

Thanks so much for the many well wishes and notes that you have been sending through. It is humbling to know that sharing my journey is an inspiration, and motivating you to go for your big hairy audacious goals.

If you want to get the inside information on my journey then you can sign up for the expedition updates here.

Yesterday the Team departed the city of Shigatse and continued our journey west along the Friendship Highway to the small town of Shegar (New Tingri).

We spent most of the day travelling above 4000m and crossed the Langpa La pass at 5220m. At most of the passes groups of enthusiastic Tibetans are waiting offer the sale of prayer flags, necklaces, fossils, and other souvenirs to all stopped traffic.

The scenery was again spectacular but it was a relief to arrive at our hotel in New Tingri after another 5 hours in the bus.

Over the last 3 days we have mainly been like Tourists with a lot of our time spent in buses traveling to our next destination, and then doing little wonders around to see some of the key Tourist attractions and to stretch our legs. While we have been over 4800 m a few times as we have traveled to New Tingri, we have been taken there by bus, so have not been doing anything at the time. So dealing with the higher altitude has not really been a challenge.

So it was good to head outside after lunch and get some fresh air and exercise with an adventurous acclimatisation climb of the hill overlooking New Tingri. Using our steam to climb the hill and return. Even though it was only a short hike, we were all puffing and panting. The affect of the altitude on our fitness and strength becomes apparent very quickly. Things we take for granted that we can do easily without loosing breathe, at lower altitudes, leave us puffed. It is a sign of what is ahead of us.

We will do some more short hikes over the next couple of days up similar hills stretching our legs and learning to become acclimatised ready for heading into Chinese Base Camp at the road end.

Wishing you all an inspirational life of adventure.

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 3rd September, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Cho Oyu, Tibet, Adventure, Altitude

The Journey to Shigatse

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Journey to Shigatse

I have just got off the bus after an 8 hour journey! Phew. It was a fantastic trip though.

So, I am doing well - we got up to 4800 metres today as we crossed a high pass in the minibus. And I seem to feel fine - a bit of a sore throat but really no big deal. IT is exciting to be getting closer to the mountain.

So here we are in the VERY remote city of Shigatse - it seem so far from anywhere! We drove through mountains and incredible plains where they were harvesting wheat or barley - not sure which. All the time on the onboard video there were violent chinese videos playing!! Quite hard to follow the plot!

Anyway, I will make this short as I am about to go up to the very impressive local monastary for a look. It has roof tops covered in gold and seems very well cared for.

We stopped at a small village along the way for pancakes and you can see the wall beside me is made of dung paddies which they use as fuel. These are resourceful folks.

It is really interesting having such a long lead-up to getting in to the climb. Most people are chilled and enjoying the journey. But all of us are very conscious of the climb coming and it seems to simmer away in the background. We are very attentive to any health issues and the slightest headache, throat issue or rapid trip to the toilet are watched very closely. Each one of us is doing everything we can to stay well. Of course there are very different theories about the best way to do this - in particular the guys from England are drinking as much beer as possible to ward off the lurgies... and actually it seems to be quite successful so far.

OK - I think I had best stop now and head to bed as I have another long day of travel tomorrow. It looks like communications in the next place - Tingri - are really basic so you won't get an update possibly other than the SPOT location messages for a few days. On Saturday we should head into Chinese Base Camp where we will meet up with the jeeps that have gone overland from Nepal with our gear. Depending on how people are feeling we will head up to Advance Base Camp on either Sunday or Monday. I think they may set up the Sat phone at Advanced Base Camp. So apart from the SPOT it is unlikely you will hear from me until around Monday.

So in the mean time, wishing you all safe adventures.

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach at adventure location Shigatse, Tibet

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 2nd September, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Tibet, Travel, Adventure

Getting to Lhasa and Touring Around

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Getting to Lhasa and Touring Around

Greetings from Lhasa Tibet!

Yesterday we flew from Kathmandu to Lhasa and of note I received a complementary upgrade to first class, along with Lukas, Josef and John . This came complete with champagne, red slippers and various other trimmings. Not that the rest of the team in the back were jealous or anything!

Unfortunately, due to the continuing heavy monsoon still affecting Nepal and vast areas of Asia, mountain views were not forthcoming. At Lhasa airport we were met by our Tibetan guide Pema who will accompany us overland on our journey to Cho Oyu. After moving into the Himalayan Hotel, we all went for a walk around the old Tibetan Quarter of Lhasa and checked out the Jokhang and general scene. We then had dinner at a restaurant called the Lhasa Kitchen and most folks opted for yak steak. Lhasa is at an altitude of 3600m and so we are all feeling the affects of tiredness that accompany an altitude jump.

Meanwhile, this morning our Sherpa Team left Kathmandu with a truck to transport all our cargo over the Friendship Highway. The news today was that a huge landslide had closed the highway. The slide was on the Nepalese side of the Friendship Bridge that forms the boundary between Nepal and Tibet. Land slides are not unusual and our schedule allows for potential delays.

Tomorrow we have a day of tourism planned in Lhasa which includes visiting the Potala Palace and the Sera Monastery.

It is great to be under way and and to have begun this journey in earnest.

After heavy rain last night and a grey morning, the sun lit up the Potala beautifully for our visit. Not withstanding the politics and tragedies that have beset Tibet, the Potala Palace is certainly a mighty, majestic and awe inspiring structure. In order to comply with the regulations of a one hour maximum visit we were constantly being shepherded along by our guide. The Potala is a giant commemoration to the history of Buddhism in Tibet, most specifically the Dali Lama lineage, and contains numerous, statues, tombs and works of Buddhism art. This afternoon involved visiting a working monastery called Sera and then chilling out. Tomorrow we will be on the road to Shighatse. The direct route is closed for road works and so we are expecting an early start and an eight hour drive.

Wishing you all a life of adventure and inspiration.

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach and Adventurer

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 1st September, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Adventure, Cho Oyu, Lhasa

Getting Honest about Fear

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Getting Honest about Fear

It's 4am and I'm dimly aware that my jaw is clenched my stomach churning. My mind is a waterfall of thoughts. A swirling cascade of images and fears.

What do you do when fear takes a grip? And why am I telling you this?

In taking on this climb I know I am taking on a very significant challenge. It forces me to confront my fears - both real and imagined. These updates are about dealing with the very real highs and lows of my adventure. I guess my hope is that I can share not just the physical journey with you but also the voyage of inner discovery.

So how did I respond to my 4am challenge? What I did was pause and become aware of what was actually going on around me. The gentle tapping of rain on the roof, my breath going out and coming in. Less attention on the story factory in my head and a gentle redirection of my attention onto sounds. Staying with this for about 15 mins was tough. Gradually my clenched hands began to relax. And fresh air wafted into my cluttered mind.

It was by no means a quick fix. What was most important was to simply and calmly place my attention on what was real. Without judging. It is something that I have total control over and a tool I can use anytime, anywhere to move me from FEAR to peace, from OVERWHELM to calm, from FROZEN to enabled.

It is a mind tool that I will practice over and over. So that at the toughest times it is already a pattern that clicks in. On the mountain there will be times, when the only tools I have to fall back on will be those in my mind. This is one of many key tools I will be using on the journey.

Would it work for you? Give it a try and let me know what you find out.

Thoughts from Kathmandu

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 30th August, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Fear, Attitude, Cho Oyu, Challenge, Goals, Adventure

Kathmandu Krush

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Kathmandu Krush

Sarah outside Hotel Shanker - Kathmandu

After 24 hours of flights and managing excess luggage I am now in the magical chaos of Kathmandu. After a very smooth passage through Nepal customs (the guy on the first security screening machine was busy chatting to someone. And there was a power cut at the second machine. So I think the scanning process was pretty much smoke and mirrors).

I then met up with one of my guides "young Mike". It turns out that both of the guides are called Mike. Which I think is very well organized of them. I am gradually meeting the climbing team which consists of 8 blokes and me! I'll introduce them properly later.

We then traveled through the wonderful craziness of the narrow streets packed with vans, tooting cars, dogs, cows and people. And piles of rubbish- apparently the rubbish collectors have been on strike for some time.

So I am now at the Shanker Hotel which has a rich tradition of climbing expeditions that have passed this way over the years.

Tonight we are thrown straight into checking and packing our base camp gear that will be sent ahead of us by jeep. So not too much time to be a tourist.

Will be in touch as things progress. Watch my progress and get updates by going to this link.

Wishing you a life if inspiration and adventure.

Sarah

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 29th August, 2010 | Comments (1) | Permalink
Tags: Kathmandu, Challenge, Goals, Adventure, Cho Oyu

Follow the Expedition

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Follow the Expedition

Cho Oyu,8200m "Turquoise Goddess"

In a week's time I will be landing in Kathmandu and my expedition will have begun!

And over the next 6 weeks I will be attempting the 6th highest mountain in the world - Cho Oyu (8200 metres)!

It is going to be an incredible journey and I will be blogging here as well as updating my position on google maps, sending through updates, photos etc.

Quite a few of you have been wanting to know how to follow the expedition.

If you are interested then there are several ways you can follow my progress:

You can follow this blog as I update daily or as regularly as the technology will allow
You can sign up to be sent updates weekly - or at summit time this will be more frequent to keep you up to date
You can follow me on Facebook or Twitter
I will also be including maps from the Spot Adventures site which will be receiving a signal from my Spot GPS tracking device.

OR - you can do ALL of these! The easiest will be to get on the priority list for updates

So, basically you can join me on the trip - at least virtually.

And your comments and support will be hugely valuable to me as I take on this significant challenge.

This is also a great testing ground for what works and what doesn't - prior to going to Everest next year. So let me know what you think... and be patient with me as I learn how to drive this baby!

Wishing you a lifetime of inspiration and adventure

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

click to follow

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 21st August, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Cho Oyu, Altitude

Packing dilemma

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Packing dilemma

A dilemma (Greek: δί-λημμα) is a problem offering at least two solutions or possibilities

Today's packing dilemma seems to sum up the challenge of going to high mountains...

On the one hand I was helping my partner pack to go to Bali for a week.
What do you need?
Togs, shorts, T-shirts, lots of stuff for balmy evenings by the pool...
(you get the picture)

Meanwhile - on a different planet and in a different time zone - my brother in Canada is helping me with a shipment of high altitude clothing to New Zealand. I will be needing this stuff to go and climb Cho Oyu at the end of this month. (that is a pic of him in his basement filled with down clothing).

What do I need?
Down suit, 5 different types of gloves, a sleeping bag rated down to -40 degrees (got it?)

So... why on earth would I head for land of freezing cold, not enough oxygen, hard slog... blah blah blah... when I could be heading to Bali to be by the pool?

Well that is the climber's dilemma. It seems so crazy.

And yet, my hunch is that I am taking on a challenge that inspires me. And hopefully inspires others to not just do the easy things in life but also take on gritty challenges that stretch us to whole new levels.

There are moments when it seems like our goals are simply too hard. Those are the moments to remember what inspires you.

Take a look at Everest 2011 if you are interested in coming to Base Camp with me and all my down gear!

Wishing you a life of inspiration and adventure
Sarah Wilson

p.s. The guys at Marmot have been unbelievably generous in helping me get my high altitude gear. They are helping me out because I am supporting the dZi foundation.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 3rd August, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Determination is not enough

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 10:00:00 -0500

Determination is not enough

Ever heard of Cho Oyu?... no? How about Tibet? yup.. well that is where I am heading in about a month's time. The thing is that in order to climb a big mountain I have to climb a big mountain. Sound weird? And what's that got to do with me? I hear you saying...

When we set ourselves a big goal, we launch into it and get excited. Then reality hits - we need to face the pain of getting fit, or we need to have a challenging conversation, or maybe we simply need to ask for help. At that point we are faced with the question "do i really want this? I mean REALLY?" At that point many of us crumble.

Those who keep going are determined. But being determined is not enough.

We can be determined, AND going backwards and not even know it.

Its like a few months back when I was training like crazy. I was determined that I was going to be fit enough to climb Everest and I was throwing myself into it. The problem was that I was not actually training, I was wearing myself out! There was a key ingredient missing and I didn't even know it.

I was missing a way of measuring where I was relative to my goal. When I started working with an awesome Osteopath called Lawrence Cartmell (based in Wellington New Zealand) and using his advice at "The Gym" (the best and friendliest gym ever in Waikanae) things took a whole new turn. I had an amazing team helping me to objectively measure my fitness and give me feedback.

So what has that got to do with Tibet?

In discussion with Guy Cotter from Adventure Consultants it became clear that I need to measure my performance at altitude before I put it to the test on Everest. Again, just being determined is not enough. So I need to go really high - above 8000 metres - to measure how I do. So, I am heading to the world's sixth highest mountain, Cho Oyu which is 8200 metres high.

It will require ALOT of determination, courage and warm socks.

Sarah and Cho Oyu

Here is a pic I took a few years ago with Cho Oyu in the background - little did I know at that time that I would be climbing it!

I will be leaving for Tibet at the end of August so things are really ramping up now. Make sure you stay tuned to hear how things develop, and as I learn lessons that might also be powerful for you and your goals.

Make sure you sign up to get the enews when it is hot off the keyboard. And you can join me on my facebook group.

Wishing you a life of inspiration and adventure
Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 21st July, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Adventure, Everest

Breaking the Silence

Sun, 28 Mar 2010 15:00:00 -0500

Breaking the Silence

It is time. I have some big news and I'm gagging to tell you about it.

I have not hounded you with emails, newsletters or actually any communication for a while now (ok, I don’t want to admit how long it has been). I guess I got tired of being hounded and got crystal clear that blogs are best when there is something useful to say.

So.. What's up?

I have started 2010 with a fierce determination to make a difference. Both in my own life and in the lives of the people I have the privilege to be involved with – including you J

OK – so what am I actually DOING? – well... I have set myself a goal so big that it keeps me awake at night. This is probably too much information but I actually get into a cold sweat when I think about what I am committing to.

It is spine-tingling fear, incredible anticipation and an over-whelming awareness that I cannot do it alone.

This time next year – March 201- – I will be on a flight to Kathmandu with the mission of climbing to the summit of Mount Everest and returning safely.

I am a mountaineer, so I understand the challenge of climbing the world’s highest mountain.

I am under no illusions that it will be a test of endurance, courage and determination beyond anything I have ever done.

And.. I am a lot like YOU.

Like you I have fears, bills, and the need to feed myself and my family.

Like you I want my life to count.

And possibly like you I dream big and want to make a difference. In particular, I want to inspire others – maybe like you – to go for gold, to stretch out to those things that you think are beyond you, to not “settle” for what others expect or to simply ‘get by’. We are capable of so much more.

So that’s why I am aiming for the summit of the highest mountain on the planet. So that you might catch a glimpse of what is possible when an ordinary person sets a goal that is extra-ordinary.

If you want to follow me on my journey and be inspired to act on your own dreams...

then join the “Everest Dream Team” on Facebook, by clicking here

And let me know what you think in the comment section below.

Let the adventures begin!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th March, 2010 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Goals, Challenge, Everest; Adventure

What would you do... if?

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 15:00:00 -0600

What would you do... if?

Recently I was giving a presentation to a group of savy property managers.

I asked them one question:

"What would you do if you knew you could not fail?"

I also told them about my most recent climbing expedition to the depths of Fiordland and showed them pictures of snow, white-out and climbing on the front points of my crampons. In fact, I am just about to write more about that - with pics - in my next eNewsletter so make sure you are on the list to get it.

But it was what happened AFTER I had left that really blew me away.

Here is the email that the Manager sent me a week after the presentation (the person's name is changed so that she doesn't freak out too much!):

"Hi Sarah

Many thanks for the awesome presentation – the team loved it. You are a remarkable person.

You’ve touched Helen's life – she came into my office after the meeting and said, “That was great – I’ve always wanted to tandem skydive but I have been too scared to try it – I think I’d like to try that next year”.

When she left my office, I hopped on the internet and booked her an 8,000 ft tandem skydive which arrived on her desk the next day with the message “Dear Helen, Go For It”. The look on her face was priceless! Anyway, her boys are saying that if you don’t do it mum, we will. There is no way she is letting them! Haha! - Professionals, Oxygen Property Management"

How cool is that?? It certainly made my day.

So what about you? What would YOU do if you knew you could not fail? And if you knew that the only thing holding you back from doing it was fear?

Let me know what comes up!

Wishing you adventurous holidays
Sarah Wilson

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 17th December, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Adventure

Being Ready

Sun, 06 Sep 2009 15:00:00 -0500

Being Ready

It was going to be a short Sunday afternoon paddle...

And then a miracle happened.

To give you a bit of context before I launch into this. I live at the southern end of the Southern Ocean. It is stormy here. It blows strongly many days of the year and we get used to harsh wind conditions for adventuring - be it in my sea kayak or in the mountains.

So, a calm day is not just rare, it is almost miraculous (OK, that is stretching the truth a wee bit, but it sure feels like that during El Nino).

So, I set off for an afternoon paddle and as I headed down the Waikanae River and out to sea I could see that it was calm - the forecast was for dying Northerly winds (and by the way, the very best wind forecasts down here are found at www.wind.co.nz and it is worth subscribing to get the additional data).

I had only planned to go for a short early spring paddle to begin to get my arms working after winter. Yeah Right.

Calm waters

Conditions became mirror calm as I paddled out towards Kapiti Island - around 7 kilometres away. It just seemed wrong to turn around so I kept on paddling. An hour later and a big smile on my face and I was near the Nature Reserve island (no landing allowed).

I sat in my boat and drunk in the bird song in the near-by forest and imagined I was hearing all sorts of rare native birds. Even the smell of the bush was amazing. It reminded me of being in the bush on the Milford Track, deep in Fiordland.

I then paddled up to the north end of the island (being very careful NOT to land as a permit is required and it is strictly policed) and took a look before paddling for home as the sun was setting. As I arrived at the Waikanae estuary there were Royal Spoonbills feeding in the water as I silently paddled past in the orange light of dusk.

Pure Magic.

Being Ready (having the safety equipment already on board) and being willing to go for it when the conditions are good is at the heart of amazing adventures.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 6th September, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Adventure, Freedom

Action Catapult!

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 15:00:00 -0500

Action Catapult!

All systems are go! A whole new set of packages are now available through Adventure Coaching!

Over the last few months we have been beavering away in the action laboratory. You have been telling us about the new challenges and opportunities you are facing, so we decided to get busy and design new packages to fit the current needs.

We have tested these products and they are now ready for YOU!

Take a good look at the

Quick-Start Catapult

or the

Adventure Momentum Package

We are also running an Action Based Information Evening as a way of getting the word out.

Click here to find out more

Take a look and fire your questions or comments in - or simply dive right in and get started now!

Cheers Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 4th September, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Whole new package coming later this week

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 15:00:00 -0500

Whole new package coming later this week

Adventure Coaching has now been around for a while and we have been thinking...

... it must be time for something NEW!

SO. We have put on our thinking caps and come up with some cool new stuff. In particular, people have been asking for some "punchy" new stuff to catapult them out of recession mindset and into the brave new world.

And we are really up for that job. Are you?

Later this week we'll be making announcements about a whole new package of possibility in Adventure Coaching.

So, stay tuned and get ready to be catapulted!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 2nd September, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Webcast replay

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 01:00:00 -0500

Webcast replay

The replay of the webcast is proving so popular that I had to shift it so that it can be downloaded more easily.

And now you have a couple of options.

You can listen to the full webcast (and I have edited it to take out some of the sound challenges we had on the day) OR you can simply listen to the segment on the ONE thing that makes a difference to your success.

Listen now by clicking here

Enjoy! - oh and make sure you find out about the Everest Mastermind

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 25th June, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Everest, Mastermind

ONE thing that makes a difference?

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 01:00:00 -0500

ONE thing that makes a difference?

For a while now I have been intrigued by an Everest Sized Goal.
A goal so BIG it takes your breath away.
It leaves your heart racing.
Not so much gripped with fear, as gripped with excitement, anticipation
and the possibility of going totally beyond.

Phew... remember to breathe!

It's one thing to get excited about an Everest Sized Goal. It's another thing to actually ACHIEVE the Everest result.

So I have been doing some research about people who achieve BIG goals.
People with the determination, training and guts to take on something much larger than themselves.
And I have been particularly looking at Adventurers who take on BIG goals. Mountaineers like Robert Mads Anderson and Walter Bonatti; and sea kayaker Andrew McCauley. And many other adventurous men and women...

As I studied this there appeared to be an enormous complexity of factors involved.
However, I discovered that there is ONE important thing that these Adventure achievers have in common.
There is common thread that links them.

Do you think you know what it is? Have a guess in the comment section below.

And if you want to find out then come along to a special Web Event and find out.

This week I will be hosting a webinar where we will explore this subject in detail. Register for the event and you can listen by phone or web at the time, or listen to the replay.

Register me for the Webcast

Talk to you soon - what ONE thing do you think makes a difference in acheiving Everest Sized Goals?

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 16th June, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Everest, Goals

Everest Success - how about you?

Thu, 28 May 2009 01:00:00 -0500

Everest Success - how about you?

Over the last week a huge number of climbers reached the summit of Mount Everest. The youngest to climb the mountain was a 17 year old and the most celebrated older person was Sir Ranulf Fiennes at 65. And Dave Hahn - who I met at the National Geographic awards last year in Salt Lake City - climbed the mountain for the 11th time.

It has been an incredibly successful season for many of the expeditions. As the reports and summit photos and videos have streamed in we have seen people achieve a huge goal. For many of them it has taken years of preparation, training, and fund-raising.

So, a while ago I asked you about your Everest-sized goal. How is it going?

The climbers this week only made it to the summit and back safely because of a massive amount of determination, courage AND an incredible team supporting them.

So, have you got a clear Everest sized goal? Who is supporting you?

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th May, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Everest; Adventure

All eyes on Everest this week

Tue, 19 May 2009 01:00:00 -0500

All eyes on Everest this week

This week is a huge week on Mount Everest.

Whether you are a climber or not you can get an inside look on what the expeditions are up to on the big mountain.

Many expeditions are posting daily updates and I have been watching them over the last month. Excitement has been building - as well as a hang of a long time that seems to look alot like doing nothing! There is a lesson there for us busy people. Sometimes just being in position and waiting, acclimitising and mentally preparing is the critical thing. Less activity can mean more success!

A weather "window" has opened up this week and I have been closely watching the Adventure Consultants team.

They report that their Expedition team members have climbed back up through the Khumbu Icefall to Camp 3 and will move to Camp 4 tomorrow, enroute for their summit attempt.
At this stage, if the weather forecasts are ok, they are planning their summit attempt on Tues 19 May.

If you are a fanatic like me, sign up for their dispatches and they will email you with daily updates.

We wish all the Everest Summit teams all the best in the coming week, and look forward to the celebrations.

And their efforts on Everest are a reminder for all of us... How is it going with your Everest-sized goal?? (see the blog and comments below)

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 19th May, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Everest, Mastermind

I really need a Mastermind

Thu, 14 May 2009 01:00:00 -0500

I really need a Mastermind

Okay, it is time to admit the dark truth

I really like to think I am well organised and give the impression of having it all handled.

Well... the truth is I got completely overwhelmed and rushed off my feet in the last week.

I had a huge plan for getting in touch with you about what is next for getting your Everest Mastermind going and it has not left the launch pad.

So what happened? Well the answer is rather ironic.

I did not have a team to back me up, keep me accountable and give me fresh ideas. I tried to do it all on my own.
Sound familiar?

So, I realised that it is time for change. And the first thing I am doing is re-activating MY mastermind team.
Today I got busy and contacted them and set things up. It was easy.

So how do you get going with your Mastermind team?

You can do it the hard way and go looking for like minded people who don't roll their eyes when you even use the "Mastermind" word.

Or you can do it the easy way and get on an Everest Mastermind Group with me and a handful of others.

And a number of you have asked me for details, which of course I am happy to give you. The main point is that this will kick start your experience with Masterminding, and after you have done it a few times it gets really easy to put together your own groups and for them to really hum.

One of the big questions that alot of you have asked is HOW MUCH? Great question. I have talked this through with others in the industry and they say I should definitely not offer this for any less that US$500. At least that is what similar programmes in the States are currently offering.

And you know, I am just not happy with that. I am sure that I can make it way more accessible to you. So I am working on it and I promise you will have the full story very soon.

Also, and this is important, I will be offering a scholarship to one applicant. Yup, they will get it for nothing, and I will let you know the criteria to apply for that scholarship.

The main thing is that this is an investment in your future and in your effectiveness. If you really want to take on big goals - Everest Sized Goals - then this is going to be THE thing that makes a huge difference. At least that is my experience.

So, the Everest Mastermind is preparing for blast-off. Make sure you get on the Everest Mastermind hot list to be "in the know" early

Wishing you a life of inspiration and adventure

Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

p.s let me know your questions and I will do my best to get back to you individually.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 14th May, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Mastermind

Sat, 02 May 2009 07:00:00 -0500

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 2nd May, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Wed, 29 Apr 2009 07:00:00 -0500

Posted by on 29th April, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Everest Goal Survey: the peaks and the valleys

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 02:00:00 -0500

Everest Goal Survey: the peaks and the valleys

I have been amazed at some of the responses to the Everest Goal Survey. (if you have not taken the survey yet then go there now as it will be closing soon).

There are some incredible stories, here are a few:

Paul from the UK: I'm co-leading an expedition to navigate the North West passage in a viking ship in 2011. No-one has done it - not even the vikings :)

Tomas from Wales: I'm going to China for 3 months to train in a Shaolin Kung Fu academy, 8 hours a day 6 days a week - I have always wanted to experience this, and only recently discovered it was possible!

Sarah from New Zealand (no, not me): I am a registered nurse who at the age of 56 has decided to take on 3yrs of study and give up my job

Duncan from New Zealand: My Everest goal is to be stable under 90kg - so I never go above it again

and then there are the comments that keep rolling in on the blog below - take a look

So, there is CLEARLY a huge amount of inspiration and motivation around the idea of an "Everest Sized Goal".

That is the peak, the exciting part, the bit that feels amazing.... and then there is the "valley"

So what is getting in the way?

According to the survey 52% of you know what your Everest Goal is. And there are some things that are getting in your way.

Many of the challenges are familiar, but I was also in for a surprise.

You see, I thought that with all the talk of recession...yada yada... that financial issues would be top of the list. But I was wrong.In fact, the TOP 5 challenges included:

"The confidence to believe in myself";
"getting out of my own way"
overcoming procrastination and staying focused;
needing support from people who understand, building a team;
AND needing to support my family

The survey has given me A LOT to think about. I know that I am facing my own daily challenges with My Everest Goal. So I am going to design something really targetted to the issues and challenges you face. This is not some generalised goal achievement programme, it is tailored to the Adventure Coaching community.

AND, I don't know quite what it looks like yet.

Stay tuned - if you want to get on an Everest "hot list" that I email first about what we come up with (you'll also be more directly in contact with me as ideas develop) click here

And follow me on Twitter for the latest "brain-farts" (I hope that does not offend anyone!) as well as on this blog.

Wishing you a life of Adventure and Inspiration

Cheers Sarah Wilson
Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 21st April, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: Everest, Adventure, Goals, Freedom, Challenge

My Everest Goal

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 02:00:00 -0500

My Everest Goal

I am taking on the Everest Challenge - to create a really BIG goal - watch the video below to see what I am up to.

Honestly, this is a serious undertaking that will require training, planning and support.

So, What is your Everest sized Goal?

And what do you need to get there?

Take the short survey and let me know what you need (and claim your Everest Bonus for helping me out):

Click here to go to the Survey and Everest Bonus

Packing for Everest (the night before leaving)

Oh, and by the way, I tried to interview my friend Bridget before she headed off to Everest last week.
Unfortunately time was too tight and we did not get to do the interview.
But I did get to take a quick snap of what her packing looked like - here it is!
It may look slightly chaotic but actually there was military precision here.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 15th April, 2009 | Comments (1) | Permalink
Tags:

Your Everest?

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 02:00:00 -0500

Your Everest?

It's that time of year...

Individuals all over the globe are nervously packing their bags. They have been thinking, planning training for probably at least a year already.

They are off to Everest.

Bridget and I at Aspiring

One of them is my friend Bridget. (We went to Aspiring together earlier this year). She is a leader on the "Youth to Everest" Trek.
I hope to get a few minutes with Bridget in amongst the chaos of packing this week - I'll post that as a video

Bridget did the trek herself as a college student. It was hugely influential in her life (I'll let her tell that story as I probably would not do it justice). And now she is going back as a leader.

Her example, as well as the regular dispatches I get from my friends at Adventure Consultants (guides on Everest) have got me thinking. Thinking about setting BIG goals. Goals that are not just about "ticking things off". Goals that feed our deepest values and longings.

So, I started thinking about the idea of an “Everest” sized goal.

Not the mountain itself – although that is rather tempting – But a goal so huge and requiring such a massive stretch
that it feels as big as Everest.

So what about you? What is your Everest goal?

Now I know that the idea of Everest - high, cold and dangerous - frightens many people. I’m not talking about terror. However, it will be a goal that gets you shaking just a bit. Shaking with excitement and nervous anticipation.
It might relate to an adventure goal. Or it might be about your career or relationships.

I have already emailed some of you with my private thoughts about this.

And I have set up an Easter Challenge: think about Your Everest over the next week or so. I find road trips and especially when I can get away on the sea, hills, rocks or mountains a wonderful time to chew over ideas. It is like the natural world gives us a huge sense of possibility.

The BIG scary outrageous goal you might dare to take on in the next 6 months or so.

Write it down (very important).

Then start sharing your Everest Goal with those that will support you. People like us here in the Adventure Coaching community.

Put a comment below (actually these have already been flooding in from the email!) or send a Tweet to @adventurecoach and we'll get a groundswell of support around you.

And I will be working on my Everest goal as well.

For my part, I am putting together a powerful mastermind team to support you as you take on your Everest.

The time to get clear is NOW.

Join the groundswell of people taking on their Everest by putting your comment below.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 4th April, 2009 | Comments (8) | Permalink
Tags:

Have you got wheels on your kayak?

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 07:00:00 -0500

Have you got wheels on your kayak?

Yesterday I discovered something really important. And it is not just about Kayaking. It is about how I am running my life...

It was a brilliant afternoon, the sea was calm and I was excited to escape from staring at my computer screen. I took my yellow sea kayak out of the garage and decided not to bother with putting it on my car roof-rack. Instead I put on the trolley wheels and wheeled it down to the ocean (I live up a steep hill and use that as an excuse for using my car!). I then packed the wheels inside the kayak and paddled off into the glinting ocean.

I had been paddling a while when I thought, "OK I have to turn around and go back to the car". Then I remembered there was no car, only the set of wheels that was happily travelling along inside my kayak. I was struck by an enormous sense of freedom. "I can go anywhere I like". I can get out and simply walk the kayak back from wherever I chose.

Now this might sound like a blinding flash of the obvious. However, do you find that your choices in life can be limited because of existing commitments? How flexible can you be when times change? Are you stuck in a rut doing the same old thing?

We need to get a symbolic 'set of wheels' in our life that gives us freedom and greater choice.

That is what I am noticing with my Adventure Coaching clients. They have a whole new freedom to make powerful choices. So get in contact and lets talk about new wheels!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 19th March, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

A summer's evening at the beach

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 06:00:00 -0600

A summer's evening at the beach

Not all Adventures need to be hard core challenges (like the one in my mountain blog below).

Take a look at this video I put together on a fabulous summer evening in Hokitika (on New Zealand's Wild West Coast).

Thanks To Zak and the boys, especially for the 360 bodyboard manoeveur!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 26th February, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Thoughts from the Mountain

Wed, 04 Feb 2009 06:00:00 -0600

Thoughts from the Mountain

So, we are back.

We have had an incredible journey. Not necessarily the one we expected, but the one we got.

We did not get to the Summit of Mt Aspiring. Weather, wind and other critical moments intervened and we had to change our plans.

So what were some of our Critical Moments along the way?

Early on we realised that our packs were far too heavy. Carting 23 or more kilos of climbing gear is really tough on the body. And is a challenge for balance. Especially when you are walking in stiff plastic boots across wet sloping rock. Learning what to take and what to cut out is a critical skill in mountaineering, as it is in life (I had already cut the handle off my toothbrush!). It was a harsh physical reminder that sometimes the "baggage" we have with us can prevent us from reaching our goal.

Then the conditions forced us to change our plans. The rain was pelting down on us in the narrow rocky gorge and the water was streaming across the smooth angled slabs that we need to climb. We could hear distant rock-fall and visibility was decreasing.

A Critical Moment arrived where we realised that the risks were not worth it. These kinds of moments can creep up on you. When they are not clearly communicated accidents can easily happen. In our case even recognising that we had reached a critical moment was useful. We stopped, took stock of the situation, and created new options for how to proceed.

We ended up heading back down the valley and finding a different route to the tops. This took us up to French Ridge Hut.

The trip was a huge mental challenge. In fact, the "mountain of the mind" was far more important than the physical mountain. I took some time in the comfort of the hut to pen some thoughts:

"So what is this trip about? I thought it was about climbing a mountain. In fact the mountain is my mind. The rawness of the environment - it does not give a stuff what I want, the wind screams, the rain comes and goes, the kea bird cries... and life and rock go on. We are mere specks, we come and go in a heart-beat of geological time with our big ideas and our even bigger packs and throw the weather dice. If we suceed in standing on top, the mountain remains. If we sit in a rain bound hut then retreat to the valley the mountain remains, unconcerned with our anxious plans. So really, it is not about the snow and rocks. It is about the raw environment that strips our plans and fears naked. Leaves the heart bare - if we will open that tender heart and feel the joy and the fear - and not avert our eyes from its brightness."

After writing this the weather cleared and we did a wonderful ice and rock climb to the summit of Mount French. It was the icing on the cake for an incredible inner and outward journey.

There is a lot more that I could say. Many more Critical Moments. If this interests you and you want more then let me know.

Thanks for your support, tell me what you think.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 4th February, 2009 | Comments (1) | Permalink
Tags:

Join me climbing Mount Aspiring

Fri, 16 Jan 2009 06:00:00 -0600

Join me climbing Mount Aspiring

Actions speak louder than words

What have you promised yourself will happen in 2009? After all, we know that by getting clear about what we want the chances of success increase ten-fold.

I have had a really BIG goal on my Vision Board for the last 2 years. So when I did my planning for this year I decided.. Right! this is the time for Action not just words. What was that goal?

It is to climb Mount Aspiring (height 3033m, or 9,950 ft)

Now lets be clear about this. This is a significant Adventure Goal. I have already attempted the mountain twice and failed. People have died on this mountain recently. Look at the pic and you may already be beginning to get goose bumps.

Why? I hear you saying. Well, the mountain is all about "Aspiring" to higher things. Holding myself to a higher standard and living a life of Adventure and inspiration. And I know that many of you 'aspire' to these kinds of values and goals.

So here is the thing.. YOU GET TO COME WITH ME! - not in person, but by virtue of the wonderful world of web. I will be posting regular updates here on my blog as well as on my Facebook site. There is even a dedicated Facebook Group called "Aspiring Adventure 2009".

The planning is already in full swing and we leave for the climb on 28 January. Join the virtual climb AND get into action with your Adventure Goals in 2009.

Sign up for the e-news to get updates on the climb.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 16th January, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

2009 - Year of Adventure Abundance

Wed, 14 Jan 2009 06:00:00 -0600

2009 - Year of Adventure Abundance

What Adventures are you up to in 2009?

It is shaping up to be an incredible year of Adventures here at "Adventure Coaching". Summer here in New Zealand is treating us well (sorry if you are in the Northern Hemisphere and struggling with minus temps and dreaming of hot sun).

I have been so busy Adventuring - Milford Track, Avalanche Peak, paddling and training for my next adventure - that I have not been blogging much. But that is all about to change. (More coming on "Virtual Adventures" so make sure you are registered for the e-news which will tell all very shortly).

But hey, more importantly.. what are you up to? Lets hear some inspiring Adventure stories, or even Adventure aspirations for 2009. Put your comment below.

Sarah Wilson, Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 14th January, 2009 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

NZ Film Premiere of "This is the Sea 4"

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 06:00:00 -0600

NZ Film Premiere of "This is the Sea 4"

Adventure Coaching had the huge honour of hosting the New Zealand Premiere of the amazing Sea Kayak film and DVD "This is the Sea 4".

In particular, people were very interested in the 50 minute segment on the circumnavigation of the South Island. The film had been put together by Justine Curgenven - who was interviewed as one of the 'Adventure Heroes' at the beginning of the year.

The day before screening the film also won an award at the Kendal Mountain Film Festival. So it was a pretty big build-up.

So it was with a real air of excitement and anticipation that the crowd of around 100 eager adventurers watched the film. And the verdict afterwards - over beer and pizza - was that it was "a winna, mate!"

We feel quietly proud to have our homeland represented so well by Justine's film. Thanks Justine.

The evening also raised money for "Project K" which is a fantastic programme that works with 14-15 year olds. It gives them a taste of adventure and teaches life skills.

Thanks everyone for your support, it was a great night.

If you want to get your hands on a copy of the 2 DVD set then email me and we will get it sorted.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 2nd December, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

The Critical Moments e-book is now available

Thu, 23 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0500

The Critical Moments e-book is now available

Get the latest HOT thing from Adventure Coaching

How often do opportunties come past and it is only later that you realise you missed out?

Or what about the times when we are hit between the eyes by a crisis and we have no idea how to respond?

These are all Critical Moments. And they come up all the time in the Adventure world and in life.

Harnessing the power of these moments can make a huge difference.

That is why I have spent the last year or so researching Critical Moments. I interviewed all kinds of people and I have put together what I have found in an e-book.

"Critical Moments: Choices you make when it really matters"

This is not just a book, it is a system for transforming your decisions and results.

I am very excited about it and have put together a bonus package for the launch this week.

Click on the book cover below to find out more.

It is a great deal, and it comes with a 100% money back guarantee so you really can't lose. In this adventure, I am taking all the risk.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 23rd October, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Taking on something BIG

Tue, 21 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Taking on something BIG

the Critical Moments E-book is cleared for take-off

Have you ever taken on a new project and launched into it with gusto and wild enthusiasm... only to discover it is FAR BIGGER than you ever imagined?

If the answer is YES, then I know how you feel.

If the answer is NO, then it is time you took on a bigger challenge.

I have taken on some fairly big adventures in my life but I had no idea that writing this e-book would be up there amongst them. It has challenged me to my core.

There have been moments of intense joy and profound despair. There have been few moments of boredom.

I made new discoveries that are already completely transforming my own life and my work as an Adventure Coach.

What are the lessons? Take on a BIG challenge and go for it. Hang on during the ups and downs. And learn from those who are up to something big.

This week is launch week for the Critical Moments e-book. Make sure you are signed up for early notification. (Click here)

And make sure you take a look at the Free Special Report which will give you a glimpse into Critical Moments.

If you are willing, it will be the start of a BIG journey.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 21st October, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Critical Moments unfolding on Wall Street

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Critical Moments unfolding on Wall Street

I have noticed myself being a bit obsessive about the news this week. I watch it on TV. And I am on my computer checking news websites. As events unfold it seems that all I can do is watch.

And it seems that a lot rides on what happens. At least that is what the media are telling us.

So, what do we do when it feels like we have no control over events that could significantly affect our lives?

I apologise in advance if this blog seems long. Given the times we are in and the impact of what I am finding out I figured you might give me a bit more space.

Understanding critical moments has become something of a passion for me. And I have been working hard to get it all down in an e-book . And it should be launched next week. (If you haven't already done so then make sure you get on the list for early notification)

However, I want to give you a glimpse of what I am discovering. It has to do with one critical word “focus”.

What we focus on has an enormous influence on our actions and the results we get. However, there is a trick here. And it was only as I was reading some research this week that it dawned on me. It is not just what we focus on, it is what we choose NOT to focus on.

Roland Carlstedt is a psychologist who has studied Sports Performance in intricate detail. Reading his material is a bit like wading through treacle. However, one sentance stood out.

“the ‘mentally toughest’ athletes are predicted to be those who are capable of suppressing negative psychological influences when it counts the most”.

The top performers are choosing not to focus on failure, defeat or fear in moments when things hang in the balance.

I’m not going to say much more except to suggest that you notice where your focus is as Wall Street does its dance this week.

If you want to know more then make sure you read the Free Special Report and get on the list for early notification of the e-book. It is going to be very timely given all that is going on in the world right now.

Oh, and do put your comments below – what do you think?

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 3rd October, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Get in for what is next

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Get in for what is next

First there was the Special Report - if you haven't got that yet then click here for the free download.

The downloads for that report have been amazing. Here is one comment from Alia (she put it on my facebook site):

"Love, love, loved your report on critical moments...I stopped and took a breath. Thank You. Keep on rocking out your inspiring works xx" - Alia, Auckland, NZ

So, you are probably wondering what is coming next.

I have been slaving over a hot laptop now for what seems like ages and I have nearly cracked it - the latest draft of the e-book has just come back from the editor and with a few tweaks we are going to be getting it out. Even the editor thinks it is great stuff (and man, my editor can be really cut throat at times - I guess I pay her to do that so that you get only the best).

So watch your emails this week.

There are going to be critical moments up for grabs. And I am going to give away some portions of the book for those on the early sign-up list.

Make sure you get on the list for early notification - that way you won't miss out on the additional free material and bonuses.

I'll be in touch this week.

Sarah Wilson

Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th September, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Special Report: The Power of Critical Moments

Thu, 18 Sep 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Special Report: The Power of Critical Moments

Adventure Coaching has now launched a free Special Report.

The team has been beavering away on this report for months now and we are keen to hear what you think. We believe that this is material that is completely new in the Adventure community and beyond. It is practical and potentially life-changing if you are willing to take the journey.

Updated Results so far (this will be updated here and on facebook) are:

Report Released: Wednesday 17 Sept at 8:42pm

Result 12 hours later: 83 click-throughs to the report

Result by Friday 19 Sept at 5:05pm (knock off time) 130 click-throughs!!

In other words, this free report is turning in to hot property.

"gripping read" - Janice, New Zealand

"Aahh. Now you've got me. It's great, It's great , it's great. Well done." Kim, Australia

If you haven't read it yet then download it now by clicking here.

Then come back and leave your comments, does this work? What do you think of the idea?

Cheers Sarah Wilson, Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 18th September, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Finalist for Nat Geo award!

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Finalist for Nat Geo award!

The news has just come through and I am completely blown away...

The Adventure Heroes Series has been announced as a finalist for an award.

The Outdoor Geographic Awareness (or TOGA) awards are being decided by the National Geographic team and we are very humbled to be in the company of some really great adventure names.

The awards seek to identify and showcase those who are finding new and creative ways to promote geographic awareness and build outdoor participation. TOGA Awards reflect National Geographic’s mission to inspire people to care about the planet and to encourage people of all ages to explore their world.

The Adventure Heroes Series is a finalist in the individual section of the competition, along with two other impressive candidates. Whilst we did not win the award we are totally stoked to be a finalist.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th July, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Dealing with Injury

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Dealing with Injury

In the latest e-news I talked about "being invincible - or not". I talked about dealing with injury and asked if people were interested in talking about it.

Well some of you have come back to me and said YES - let's talk about it.

So this is where a blog really works well. Put your thoughts down using the comment link below. Then we can get some dialog going.

To get the ball rolling....

Have you had to deal with injury in the past that has stopped you doing what you love?

What do you do with that? Apart from feeling frustrated, angry and depressed that is.. what answers, insights or ideas can we share on this blog that actually might be just the thing that someone else needs?

Once this gets going I'll chip in a few ideas of my own, but first of all I'm interested to see what people come up with.

Bring it on!

Sarah Wilson

Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 30th June, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

The People have answered

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0500

The People have answered

A while ago I asked you what you wanted and how you wanted it.

Quite a number of you filled out the online survey. Thanks a bundle everyone.

If you were one of those then you also got the bonus of hearing sound clips from our inspirational dynamic family duo - Nikki and Cheryl Bart - who have just climbed Everest (and all the 7 Summits).

If you haven't done the survey yet then here is your last chance. I will leave it up for the next week and then it is gone - along with the bonus. Click here to do the survey.

For the rest of you... here are the results (so far)

What are you are interested in?

In terms of Adventure, about half of you (48%) were interested in adventure in general. And 46% of you were interested or at least curious about specific kinds of adventure.

The list of adventures people are into is mind boggling. Many of you are into climbing or mountaineering (around 60%), but we had some other kinds of adventures that got my attention, like "powered parachuting", or kite surfing on ice! Yikes!

74% of you wanted inspirational stories (the other 26% were curious).

65% wanted tools and ideas that they can apply

78% of you are interested or at least curious in self improvement in other areas of your life (eg wealth, relationships etc)

So, I am drawing some important conclusions. You really want cool adventure information and you definitely want to be inspired. Many of you want to take this information further and apply tools to your situation and into other areas of your life. You want to be even more effective than you are now and I am really keen to support you with that.

The best ways to give you what you want

I was really surprised with the results here.

The leading contender (87%) was reports or articles

E-news was also popular on 56%

And Video was strong on 52%

Things then evened out with 40% wanting e-book, CD or Teleseminars as the way to get information

(By the way, I know these numbers do not add up to 100%, people could chose more than one!).

So.. good news. I am currently writing a special report which I think you will really enjoy.

If you have a strong opinion on this and have not yet voted then do the survey now. OR post a comment below.

Does the idea of “critical moments” interest you?

This one turned out to be a no-brainer. 78% were interested and 17% had no idea (probably because they had not been part of the Adventure Heroes Series).

So, you can be sure that there will be more useful stuff coming on this. And hey, given you like reports and articles we might just start there… keep an eye out!

There were other questions about Adventure Coaching that I think I will look at in a future blog as there is quite a bit there.

Finally, there is one comment that I really liked…

“Love reading about your trips and adventures, one day… it could be me :) “ – Yup, that is the whole point.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 27th June, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Bonus for helping us out

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Bonus for helping us out

As I indicated in our last e-newsletter, we are busy designing the best possible material for you and your adventures.

We want to get good information on exactly what you want and how you want it.

So we have put together a short survey (it takes less than a couple of minutes). Take the survey now by clicking here.

And of course there is a bonus for everyone who fills it out. It is a bonus that gives you an inside look into the success of our own Adventure Heroes Nikki and Cheryl Bart.

Thanks very much for your help.

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 4th June, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Big news from Mount Everest

Sun, 25 May 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Big news from Mount Everest

Incredible news is just in... Our Adventure Heroes, mother and daughter pair - Nikki and Cheryl Bart - have made it to the Summit of Mount Everest!

The news came through that on 24 May 2008, at 4:36am Kathmandu time,

Nikki Bart has reached the summit with Sangay Dorjee Sherpa.

Then Cheryl Bart and Pemba Choti Sherpa reached the summit at 4:50am.

This makes them the FIRST mother and daughter pair to climb all 7 Summits.

And news is just in that they have got back safely to Basecamp and they are now resting and partying!

Some great dispatches and photos from the amazing team at Adventure Consultants can be found at http://www.adventureconsultants.co.nz/AdventureInternational/Everest2008/

This blog will be updated as we hear news of our very own Adventure Heroes in action!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 25th May, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

A 'chat' with epic Sea Kayak Adventurers

Tue, 20 May 2008 07:00:00 -0500

A 'chat' with epic Sea Kayak Adventurers

I recently got the chance to have a cup of tea and a yarn with epic Sea Kayakers Justine Curgenven and Barry Shaw. They had just finished their incredible journey around New Zealand's South Island.

The first part of the video is below... and part two will also get loaded shortly.

I also interviewed Justine prior to her epic paddle. She talked about dealing with fear and finding her passion in Sea Kayaking and film making. This is inspirational stuff.

To get access to this cool interview - and 6 hours of interviews with Adventure Heroes then you have 24 hours to get a really great deal.

Click on this link to take a look at the "crazy offer". But be quick as it ends tomorrow!

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 20th May, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Want to try something new?

Fri, 09 May 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Want to try something new?

Trying new stuff should be FUN!

Problem is that sometimes we let our fears of what we "think" will happen get ahead of the reality.

I decided to put this to the test recently.

For me the new thing was surfing in my Sea Kayak.... it scared me silly! I was very happy paddling out in the sea but the concept of big scary waves breaking on top of me was not nice.

But, to my amazement, when I actually got some skills and tried it out with a great instructor I discovered a whole new world of excitment, adventure and discovery.

Take a look at the vid below to see how I did it and what I learned.

Oh, and by the way, I am now an addict of surfing :-)

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 9th May, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

The calm before the storm...

Thu, 24 Apr 2008 07:00:00 -0500

The calm before the storm...

OK, so things have been a bit quiet for a few weeks... but things are brewing...

I can't tell you all the details yet, but I know you are all going to enjoy what is coming soon.

Keep an eye out over the next weeks - and make sure you sign up for our e-newsletter (on the panel to the right of this blog) so that you are among the first to find out what is going on down under!

Oh, and now would be a great time to give us your comments on what YOU would like to see next. Bring it on!

Wishing you a life of adventure that makes a difference

Sarah Wilson

Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 24th April, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Adventure Heroes Series ends today

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 07:00:00 -0500

Adventure Heroes Series ends today

Today we get the chance to listen in to Justine Curgenven.

I find her inspirational becuase she is doing what many of us would dream of.

She has taken her love for adventure and turned it into a lifestyle.

If you want proof of this then take a look at Justine's blog by clicking here

Justine has taken her love of sea kayaking and film making to a whole new level. It was not necessarily an easy journey though. And we will talk to Justine today on our Adventure Heroes interview about what it took.

And if you want to take a further look at Justine's DVD's then take a look at this video - it sums up Justine, she is fun, fearless and creating adventures that we can all enjoy.

Cheers Sarah

ps let me know what you think of Justine, the vid, or the Adventure Heroes Series by clicking on the comment link.

pps for details on how to listen in to today's call then click here

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th March, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

No legs... no problem

Thu, 13 Mar 2008 07:00:00 -0500

No legs... no problem

A few years ago I got the chance to crew for Tony Christiansen at a big event where he was speaking. It was a rare opportunity to meet a great man.

Before the event Tony roared into the venue in his trusty old van - nothing flash here - and pulled out the bag with his scaffold in it. He uses this as part of his talk. He was grateful for our help (even though he was far better at assembling this than we were). And soon we were laughing and joking with him. He treated us like old family friends and was really easy to be around.

Then it was show-time for Tony and he was climbing up onto his scaffold on stage to give his talk. As he was climbing up he appeared to slip and the crowd held their breath - Tony said "Whoops, I lost my footing" which of course was a joke as he has no feet - the crowd was transformed to laughter.

The next hour of his talk was filled with laughter and tears as Tony took us all through his journey and adventurous life. He had video on him climbing to the summit of Kilamanjaro, driving stock racing cars and many other things that those of us with legs have never done.

In short, he was amazing and also very human and approachable.

So when I was putting together this Adventure Heroes Series it became clear that he would make a huge contribution to the Series.

Make sure you listen in to the live interview tomorrow. Register here.

Or if you miss the interview then click here to find out how to get a copy of the interview.

Cheers Sarah Wilson

Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 13th March, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Listen in for some gems

Wed, 05 Mar 2008 06:00:00 -0600

Listen in for some gems

Hi there Adventurers!

We have had great fun deciding on which short clips to put up on this site from the Adventure Heroes Series. You can hear:

Kurek talking about winning Gold at the Olympics,
Mike talking about a life that matters,
Guy describes the Summit of Mount Everest

These are great sound bites from the interviews.

As we are nearly half way through the Series it is abundantly clear that this Adventure Heroes Series is unique and of huge value.

People have been telling us the value they have got:

listening to the downloads on their iPod and getting inspired all over again
reading the transcripts and getting step by step instructions on the strategies and tools that the people who are at the top use to succeed
Simply being inspired by the experiences our Adventure Heroes describe

If you are interested in hearing the whole interview then Go take a look NOW

Oh, and if you just can't invest that money right now, then enter the competition below and maybe you will WIN the series!

Wishing you a life of adventure and inspiration

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 5th March, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags:

Adventure blog competition

Thu, 28 Feb 2008 06:00:00 -0600

Adventure blog competition

The time has come for the next frontier... (stirring music)

Bring on the Blog....

Its time that we opened up this community and got some discussion going.

So, to launch things off I am announcing a blogetition - that's like a blog competition!

The Winner will take away the complete Adventure Hero Series worth US$197 plus other bonuses worth around US$150.

This includes downloads of the 7 interviews, transcripts, Action Worksheets the whole shooting match. Essentially, it is a package that will take your Adventure life to a whole new level.

Here is the game and the rules:

Enter your comments below - tell us your Adventure Hero moments.

In particular, what I am looking for are gritty yarns which identify a critical moment in your Adventure life - give us the goods on what you were feeling and thinking and the difference it has made to your life.

Don't make them too long.

The competition is going to run for the next week. So get your comment in and win.

Simple eh!

Have an adventurous day

Sarah Wilson

Adventure Coach

Posted by Sarah Wilson on 28th February, 2008 | Comments | Permalink
Tags: