I was recently contacted by Francis Tapon, telling me about his e-book that he had written, and asked if I would like to read it. Being a reader I jumped on the opportunity. I have to be completely honest, I was very very hesitant. I have no interest in backpacking and with the title being: Hike Your Own Hike: 7 Life Lessons from Backpacking Across America, I was nervous it was going to be a hard read for me. After reading it, I discovered that the lessons he learned and wrote about can relate to everyone. I think it’s an awesome book that everyone should read. Especially if you’re looking for a change in your life. He relates life to his travels from backpacking, and uses comparisons that are easy to understand. Tapon involves the reader, and asks us questions about our own life to discover ‘what would make us happy?’ I have already recommended this book to several people, including my cousin J who is looking forward to getting a copy soon. So take charge and go get a copy here.

He describes 7 lessons or principles that help you achieve a peaceful life. The first principal being hike your own hike. The second through six principle describe further how to achieve the first principle. The seventh and last principle is that “The Hike Is Too Important to Take Seriously.”

I found myself shaking my head “yes” for a lot of things that he describes. This book for me couldn’t have come at a better time, I’m at a point right now where I’m thinking about what to do with my future. Do I stay where I’ve been unhappy but with the people I love, or do I create an “infliction point” and do something about it? I’ll hike my own hike, and do something about it.

Some of my favorite quotes in this book that I though are great tips for everyone are:

“Those who just do what society expects them to do, thereby ignore their inner voice, are missing the point of life.”

Tapon suggests we separate Major Trails from Minor Trails in life, and decide which is Major: long-term or Minor: short-term.
“Here’s the rule of thumb you should use on Major Trails: if you’re generally not enjoying a Major Trail for over four months, then create an Inflection Point by getting out of or changing that situation immediately so you can enjoy life again.”

“…bad news happens to all of us. Yes, some get it more than others, but there is always an excuse to be miserable if you’re looking for one.”

Thanks for reading,
DreamTravelerJess