5 tips for taking a mini adventure
4th July 2012
Writer, expeditioner and pioneer of the micro-adventure Alastair Humphreys explains how you can have an adventure this summer (even if the weather doesn't perk up!)
1. Come up with an idea that excites you
It need not be epic or a world first. Then pick a date when you will do it. And, finally, the hardest part of all: COMMIT to actually doing it!
Whether it is cycling to the sea, walking the South Downs way, or eating in a restaurant from a country you know nothing about, the hardest part is to break your ordinary routine and make yourself do it. It's often easier if you rope in a few friends to join you.
2. Overcome the excuses and obstacles
One of the key things about these little adventures is not to let a lack of expensive equipment, for example, stop you getting outdoors this summer and trying something new. A tent from Tesco's, a sleeping bag from a charity shop, and a couple of packets of Custard Creams are all that you really need to get you out under the stars, into the wild, and doing something new and exciting this summer.
3. It doesn't have to be fun to be fun
The great British summer has a twisted sense of humour. You may have blazing sunsets and bright shooting stars. You may get drizzle and a little damp. It's a good reason to start small: a night of rain on the tent is not so bad, especially with the knowledge that you'll be home tomorrow. Home to a hot bath, a fluffy duvet, and the inevitable onset of rose-tinted memories.
"That wasn't so bad. In fact it was quite fun. What shall we do next...?"
4. Think small
You might not feel confident yet to take on the whole world. That doesn't matter! In fact I would encourage you to start by thinking very small: one night away, one jump in a lake. Start small and build up: it's better than thinking big, getting scared, and never starting!
5. Share your story
I have come to really enjoy sharing my trips with an online community. Take photos, write a blog, make a short video. It's fun to do and, who knows, you might inspire someone else to take that hesitant, difficult first step towards their own summer of adventure.
Alastair Humphreys is an ambassador for Hope and Homes for Children's Summer of Adventure. Join in the challenge and raise £100 by taking your own adventure.
Be it kayaking your local river, eating in every restaurant in your city, wild swimming in your lunch break, completing your first marathon, camping under the stars or taking a photograph every day – there's an adventure waiting for all of us.
Find out how you can get involved with Hope and Homes for Children's Summer of Adventure here.
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