When I want to resolve something I usually turn straight to research for a solution. I do this with a strong sense of purpose and determination. This has sometimes served me well, as a history student and in my past job as a Data Analyst, for example. But other times this method has left me feeling stuck and jaded, especially when I can’t reach a definitive answer for matters of the heart.
I’ve realised that answers can’t always be found externally. This can include deciding on a career change. No matter how many job descriptions I looked at, how many times I adapted my CV, and how many people I asked for advice, I couldn’t figure out what I wanted to do. The only way to truly find out was to go inward.
Reading ‘Silence in the Age of Noise’ by Erling Kragge this winter has reminded me about the revealing nature of spending some time in quiet solitude. Choosing to sometimes write and sketch without any music in the background, to cook without listening to a podcast, to pause my footsteps so I can look up and listen, to allow silence between conversations.
My question to you is:
Can your answers be found in moments of silence?
There are many untold gifts in moments of silence - are you curious to explore? Let me know what you notice. Write to: sarah@sarahventurer.com
Subscribe below to receive more questions like this.
Turning a hobby into a career
On About The Adventure Podcast:
Jessica Snape-Burns shares incredible stories and powerful insights from her 10-year journey with Amerron Acres in Edale, an equine centre specialising in activities and therapies to help humans with their mental health.
I think that you'll find this interview particularly valuable if you:
are thinking about turning your hobby into a career
live with chronic health issues, or have done in the past
feel that it's difficult managing everything on your own
are trying to balance family life with other responsibilities
have an interest in Equine Facilitated Learning (EFL)
enjoy learning about horses (and goats!) in general
Kinder Scout content
Most of my coaching walks are on Kinder Scout and in the surrounding area of Edale valley and the Mam Tor Ridge. I host a podcast featuring interviews with people who feel a special connection with Kinder Scout and a website featuring written guest contributions. This may help to introduce you to the area if you’re not familiar with it, or inspire your next trip here.
Watch my interview on Stephen Reid’s YouTube channel. We met up for a run on Kinder Scout in terrible weather! Check the video comments for a 25% discount on my book Mountain Walks Kinder Scout.
Listen to the latest episode of Wild About Kinder podcast - an interview with musician Bella Hardy who shares memories of growing up in Edale and reflects on what makes her wild about Kinder Scout.
Read Andrew Greenwood’s account of his first walk on Kinder Scout and look at his beautiful selecton of photographs taken in January!
Postcard from the Peak District
Last weekend I got up above the temperature inversion before sunrise and witnessed a stunning array of colours in the sky. The sun emerged while I ran, here looking back towards Grindslow Knoll on Kinder Scout. It was one of the most spectacular sunrises I’ve seen since I moved to Edale.
I started my hilltop sunrise adventures when I was living in London. It was during a time that I was feeling stifled by the routine of office work life and looking for variety outside of the 9-5 work hours. It was quiet exciting to travel to another part of London to watch sunrise and then see if I could still make it to work on time - which I always did!
Watching sunrise gives me time for myself before work or any other commitments begin. I can use that time to relax, to feel my emotions, to reflect on something that’s on my mind, or to inspire something creative.
Would you like to experience sunrise or sunset on Kinder Scout with me? I can offer this as a guided walk or a coaching session. Please email me if you’re interested: sarah@sarahventurer.com
Recommending:
Stay at the highest hostel in the UK, nestled off-grid into the mountains, at this yoga and walking retreat in the Lake District with my friend Jen Scotney in March 2024!
I hope you’ve enjoyed this edition of my newsletter. Let me know what you think by clicking the love heart, sending me a message, or write to: sarah@sarahventurer.com if you have any questions or feedback. I’d love to hear from you - email me a picture postcard if you like!