Last Thursday I took the day off to climb the Manitou Incline with my friend Dana. I did it a few years ago with the Artsy crew and I swore I would never do it again, but it's kind of like childbirth - you forget how painful it was. So when my friend asked I was like "sure, why not?!"
Well here's why not - because it's INSANE! This is me about halfway up. I refused to look down - you can't tell how steep it is in this pic but it's hella steep and I am deathly afraid of heights. Dana took this pic so I could see just how close to death I was once we were safely on level ground.
The incline is 2,744 steps climbing 2,000 feet in elevation in under one mile. I told you, INSANE! This was the sign greeting us at the trailhead. Notice the part about people have DIED attempting the Incline.
The average grade is 45% (24°) and it gets as steep as 68% (34°) in places, you have to lean forward to keep from falling and even use your hands at times to bear climb up the steps. It took us a little over an hour to climb PLUS the 2ish hour trail back down. My quads were on FIRE!
So of course the easy question is "why"? Why would someone do this just for funsies? And here's the truth - because it's important to get out of your comfort zone. To build grit. To do hard shit so you can look back and feel a sense of accomplishment. Because the magic happens when you get out of your comfort zone. I share this story not to toot my own horn, but to remind you that if you haven't challenged yourself lately then it's time. And maybe climbing 2,744 steps isn't your thing - pick your own hard thing that challenges you. Something that moves you to the point of wanting to throw in the towel, but you fight through it and persevere. Because I promise the view from the top will be worth it!
You know what moves you out of your comfort zone - starting a business. Talk about uncomfortable! But you can do this! Learn more about all the perks of your ALL-ACCESS Artsy membership at www.ArtsyAssociation.com!
I'll be here cheering you on every step of the way!
Cheers :) M
Mandy