A buddy asked me to have a look at the movie, Meru, a compelling account of climbing at the highest level.

What an amazing movie.

It reminded me of the themes that challenge my daily living.

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Fame

We share a need for connection and approval.

When I see someone with an extreme need for approval, I feel compassion for the child within them. I feel this because growing up with addiction, abuse or abandonment will crank up our need for approval/fame. My kids are lucky to have parents that are present and loving.

Try this antidote.

Lots of small acts of kindness.

I’ve been at it for more than 5,000 days.

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Meaning

Young people thrive when working together on a challenging mission.

In middle-age, many of your fondest memories will be a result of this reality. Remember that memory is a chemical signature of a story we tell ourself.

Coming back from the mission, or simply growing up, can leave a HUGE void in your life.

Applying the kindness tip gives you a dose of meaning but you’re going to long for a stronger fix.

Surprisingly, the mission might not need to be that much larger.

• Build a veggie garden for your son
• Teach your daughter to use an inflatable dinghy
• Take your wife camping
• Drag your son on a sled to a mountain lodge

I’m constantly giving myself missions. Recognizing that I’m larger than myself, my missions have an ever lower risk of death.

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Risk

Teach your kids to recognize, and be wary of, risk-seekers – especially the criminal variety. Risk-seekers are exciting when your under 25. They are a disaster as a partner in family living.

Another antidote…

Gradually expand your sphere of influence…

• Your future self
• Your marriage
• Your kids
• Your family
• Your tribe
• Your community
• Your country
• Your planet

At times, I found it useful to take a break from my risk-seeking pals. I’ve tried learning new hobbies. I’ve resisted the urge to constantly benchmark myself against others.

It takes courage to make better decisions.