Challenge Plus
Push your limits further than ever with Go Ape's newest and most demanding high ropes adventure. Available at Cockfosters, Sherwood Pines and Thetford.
- 2 - 3 hours
- £40
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2023 Guide to Setting Adventure Goals
Published on: 11/01/23
Ah, the one thing we all look forward to at this time of year—planning our next adventure!
We all seek out adventure in one form or another, whether it's wandering off the beaten path on a camping trip, seeking profound spiritual insight through a long-distance hike, experiencing an adrenaline rush from skydiving—or any other activity that reignites our sense of wanderlust and wonder.
Is adventure on the horizon of your 2023 resolutions? If so, look no further.
This blog post is designed to help you plan and lay down the groundwork for tackling your big goals this coming year. From setting realistic expectations to planning inspiring trips, we’ve got plenty of tips and tricks that can get any adventure enthusiast ready for an exciting new journey in 2023.
So lace up your hiking boots tight and let's dive right into the guide.
Push Your Limits
The best adventure goals are those that challenge you to step outside of your comfort zone and experience something new. This could be a physically demanding activity that helps you improve your fitness levels, or it could be something that requires you to push your technical or mental limits. Either way, setting goals in these categories can lead to a sense of personal growth and accomplishment that is truly fulfilling.
Image from Go Ape's rock climbing Naturally Powered Adventure to Costa Blanca - Read the blog post.
Keep Them Achievable
Last year, we supported Rupert Jones-Warner on an incredible journey - to summit Kanchenjunga (the 3rd highest mountain in the world) then descend and travel back to the city of Kathmandu by foot in the fastest known time.
Rupert’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary! His trek to scale nearly 700 miles of treacherous Himalayan terrain and dense jungles is a feat only few can dream of (let alone accomplish). It's inspiring yet also serves as a reminder for us all: it’s important not just to push your limits, but also to be realistic when setting goals, so you'll be able to reach new heights just like Rupert did.
Image from Rupert's journey - Find out more about Rupert and his expedition.
Mix It Up
So, you’ve got the adventure bug and you want to spend more time outdoors this year. You’re speaking our language! It's important to mix things up and choose a diverse range of goals. While it's great to have a specific passion, like mountain climbing, try to mix it up and challenge yourself in new ways. Consider adding activities like wild camping or wild swimming in mountain lakes to your list of goals. Or, take it a step further and sign up for a mountaineering course to learn new techniques and ways to enjoy the mountains. By diversifying your adventure goals, you'll have a well-rounded and fulfilling year.
Image from Go Ape's stand-up paddleboarding Naturally Powered Adventure to Northumberland - Read the blog post.
Big Ones and Little Ones
When it comes to planning an adventure, bigger isn't always better. Sure, having ambitious goals is important for motivation and excitement - but don't forget about setting smaller targets on a week-by-week basis that can still provide you with the kind of escapism life needs. Check out Al Humphreys' book ‘Microadventures’ for inspiration; sometimes all you need are those quick wins!
Image from Go Ape's mountain biking Naturally Powered Adventure to the Lake District - Read the blog post.
Learn New Skills (And Meet New People)
New skills could be the key to unlocking new adventures. If there’s something you’ve always wanted to try but feel a bit out of your depth, consider taking a course or joining a club. This is a great way to gain confidence in your abilities and try something that may have previously seemed out of reach. Plus, you'll have the opportunity to meet like-minded individuals and potentially make a new adventure buddy. There are many clubs available both in-person and online that cater to a wide range of interests, including mountaineering, climbing, wild swimming, cycling, and water sports, just to name a few. Don't let fear or uncertainty hold you back from pursuing your passions and trying new things.
Image from Go Ape's action-packed Naturally Powered Adventure to the Lake District - Read the blog post.
Who Will You Adventure With?
Adventures are a great way to bond and create lasting memories with friends. Consider inviting someone you already have a close relationship with to join you on an adventure. Alternatively, consider who you would most like to go on an adventure with and use that as a starting point to plan your next adventure. No matter which approach you take, getting out there and exploring with someone you trust is sure to result in amazing experiences and cherished memories.
Image from Go Ape's adventurous Naturally Powered Adventure to Loch Lomond - Read the blog post.
It’s About the Journey AND the Destination
While it's important to stay focused and determined, it's equally important to enjoy the journey and not get so caught up in the destination that you forget to appreciate the present moment. Some goals may take more than one attempt to achieve, and that's okay. It's all part of the process. On the other hand, it's also important to not get so caught up in achieving the goals that you forget to take breaks and appreciate the journey. Striving for balance and enjoying both the journey and the destination is key.
Image from Go Ape's Naturally Powered Adventure to tackle the Welsh 3000s - Read the blog post.
Get Inspired
If you're seeking inspiration for your next adventure, consider looking to a variety of sources such as books, magazines, YouTube videos, and adventure film festivals. Alternatively, you can also find inspiration from others within your community who may have exciting plans for the year ahead. Don't be afraid to reach out and ask for advice or ideas from those who have already pursued their adventures. It's always helpful to gather ideas and perspectives from a diverse range of sources.
Need another source of inspiration? Check out what a few members of our Tribe have planned for 2023:
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"I’m running around the Isle of Wight and want to do some UK long distance paths including The West Highland Way with the dog and a tent"
- Vic H, Operations
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"I’m taking part in the Montane Spine Race Challenger North. A non stop running race from North Yorkshire to the Scottish border along the Pennine Way"
- Ed S, Construction Team
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"Experiencing the Northumberland 250, an adventure road trip across the land of dark skies. I'm particularly looking forward to exploring Farne Islands on the coast and the stretch between Kielder and Derwent Reservoir"
- Dan B, Marketing
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"My personal goal is to climb at least one mountain this year as it challenges me every time I try a new one. It's so rewarding when you get to the top. I'm currently eyeing up Scafell Pike"
- Hannah V, Alexandra Palace
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"I've set myself the challenge of listening to more different music this year so am making my way through some of Rolling Stones [the mag] Top 500 albums"
- Ilona C, Marketing
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" My plan is to start either wild swimming or early morning sea dipping this year"
- Zoe T, Customer Care
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Image from Go Ape's Naturally Powered Adventure to Morocco - Read the blog post.
There you have it. Our top tips on how to set yourself up for an amazing year of adventure in 2023. Just remember, the most important thing is to get out there and do something that feels adventurous to YOU. And if you need a little inspiration or guidance along the way, be sure to check out our blog - we'll be sharing all kinds of exciting ideas and stories throughout the year. Including following our tribe on their adventure plans for 2023.
