On Mindset, Mountains, and What Got Me Chasing Summits

I grew up in the province, and the mountains have always been a huge part of my life. It might sound crazy, but I whisper my secrets to the trees—those I can’t bear to share with people. And somehow, it helps. The trees and the hills, as creations of the Ultimate Creator, have never failed to bring me peace, hope, and purpose. But I didn’t truly learn to appreciate trekking until I was in my mid-20s.

I was 24 when I joined my first climb. Six years and ten peaks later, I’ve realized that every mountain is different. Every mountain is lovable in its own way. And every rugged path teaches me something new about myself.

Over the years, I’ve learned six key mountaineering lessons that also apply to other areas of my life.

1. Leave No Trace

In mountaineering, the concept of “leave no trace” encourages people to avoid littering, cutting branches or twigs from live trees, and altering nature by moving rocks or clearing vegetation.

Practicing “leave no trace” in daily life has helped me reduce my use of plastic. It’s inspired me to avoid single-use purchases. Most importantly, it’s taught me to think twice before buying anything—to avoid unnecessary waste.

My Racini Extreme 35L has been my trusted companions in my travels. I can fit everything I need for a month inside this bag.

2. Pack Light

Experts say that a climber’s backpack should ideally weigh no more than 20% of their body weight. That means if you weigh 200 lbs, your pack should weigh around 40 lbs or less.

Learning the science and art of traveling light has been a long journey. It’s helped me reflect on what really matters in life. It made me consider the unnecessary emotional and physical baggage I’ve been carrying—baggage that only weighs me down. Ultimately, this mindset paved the way toward simplifying my life.

3. No One Gets Left Behind

Climbers are usually allowed to go at their own pace, especially on minor climbs or day hikes along established trails. Some reach the peak faster than others. But during major, multi-day climbs, the team must stay together.

The same is true in life. I may finish my race faster or slower than others. But sharing the journey makes both climbing and life more meaningful.

4. Instant vs. Delayed Gratification

Mountains offer scenic views around almost every turn. But it’s not practical to stop at each one. You have to keep your eyes on the summit. The best view is at the top. That’s why it’s worth focusing on the climb, pausing only when needed, so you can fully enjoy that perfect panoramic view.

In life, too, we must learn to forgo the “good enough” in order to experience the best.

Surrounded by jagged green hills at Osmeña Peak

5. Failure to Plan Is Planning to Fail

Even for day hikes and minor climbs, it’s important to train and achieve a certain level of physical readiness. Emergencies happen. The weather can change suddenly. But you can overcome anything with proper preparation.

Planning my travels and climbs has saved me from burnout caused by deadlines at work. I’ve learned that when I plan my daily life well, I not only earn enough but also make time for the things that truly matter—like traveling and climbing.

6. Just Breathe and Keep Walking

The challenge of a rugged trail reminds me of life’s unexpected turns. When you're already halfway up a mountain, quitting isn’t an option. I’ve learned to face my limits and to be humble enough to ask for breaks when things get tougher than expected. Most of all, I’ve learned to keep putting one foot in front of the other to finish what I started.

So, What Got Me Chasing Summits?

It feels good to tick another item off my mountaineering bucket list. But more than that, the lessons I’ve learned about myself while walking those rugged and often unforgiving trails are priceless.

Yes, reaching the summit brings a sense of pride. But in hindsight, I’ll never forget the trails that humbled me—those that brought me to my knees in exhaustion.

Over time, as my muscles and strength begin to fade and I can no longer climb even a hill, the pride of my youth will fade with them. And all I’ll have left are the perspectives and panoramic memories from the mountaintops.

Ultimately, both pride and youth will pass. And the most important thing I’ve realized—both in life and in trekking—is this: one can only see clearly through the pain.