Checking In: What Makes Someone "Outdoorsy"?

That's me being "outdoorsy" in Zion National Park!

Last night before bed I read a really interesting op-ed piece about what it means to be "outdoorsy." In it, the author moves to Montana and calls herself an outdoorswoman, only to be met with some stuck-up noses: "People laughed at me, asking what experience I had in the 'outdoors' and called me things like a poser or a wannabe."

Fast forward three years later and she's learned to mountain bike, ski, kayak, and paddle board. She's taken courses in avalanche survival and wilderness first aid. It's more than most people will accomplish in their entire lives, but still, she says she feels an emptiness—she doesn't consider herself "outdoorsy" because of those original nay-sayers. 

I'm calling bull crap on those people who talked her down. Not everyone will grow up with access to world-class climbing routes or an ocean lapping at their backyard. We all make do with what we have. So if you want to start enjoying everything the outdoors has to offer, shake off those feelings of self-doubt and get out there. No one at the rock gym is going to look down on you—in fact, they'll love explaining the knots to you, remembering the day they started climbing. Invest in one piece of quality, high-rated gear that you'll be proud to show off. Spend a Saturday night sleeping under the stars with some friends rather than meeting up for drinks. 

Before you know it, people will be looking to you for advice (and few good adventure stories).

Read the article at WomensAdventureMagazine.com!