What is Your Everest?

You may know by now that I’m a bit of a bookworm.

I love reading.

And my latest read is the second book by Alex Staniforth – one of the most inspirational people I know.

Alex is only in his early 20’s yet has overcome adversity to achieve so much.

A young life marked by experiences of bullying, bulimia (yes, guys can have that, too), a stammer, anxiety, and more.

In 2014, at 18 years of age, he wanted to be one of the youngest to climb Everest. But before he could reach base camp an avalanche killed 16 climbing Sherpas.

All climbing on the mountain was cancelled that year.

Undeterred, Alex returned in 2015, aged 19, for another go. But a big earthquake in Nepal triggered shock waves which caused a deadly avalanche.

Alex, with climbing partners, was high up Everest when it happened. He and they survived, just.

But Base Camp was laid waste by a thunderous wall of snow – and three of their Sherpa team lost their lives.

A second tragedy.

A second attempt at a famous summit success scuppered by nature’s fickle ways.

A second year of having to deal with things when they don’t go your way… with the added loss of friends and colleagues who died ‘without a chance’.

As you can imagine, both years left emotional scars with Alex and he has since turned his hand to other challenges. Not necessarily in the high mountains but BIG challenges nevertheless.

He describes some of these in his first book (Icefall) and again – including his ‘Climb the UK’ challenge in particular – in his latest book, Another Peak.

It’s subtitle is “Everest is not the only summit”.

And it got me thinking.

We all have an ‘Everest’.

It’s that big dream that gnaws at our mind.

It’s that wonderful future that we’re striving to reach.

It’s that giant challenge which holds us back.

It’s a thing of beauty yet something that may test us.

It’s something we might face alone – or together with others.

So, let me ask you.

What’s YOUR Everest?

What is the BIG dream you want to see happen?

What is the difference you want to make in the world?

Who do you want to help most – and why?

When you know this or begin to see a picture forming more sharply into focus, it can help you form your ‘Why?’, your elevator pitch, your captivating introduction and your whole marketing effort.

Worth taking time out to consider that question, wouldn’t you say?

Namaste.

Gary

P.S. You can find out more about Alex Staniforth here.

Also, you may like to know that proceeds from his book are going to The Shaw Mind Foundation, a global mental health charity. Here are easy ways to find his book, enjoy the read and support the cause:

Another Peak on Alex’s website.

Another Peak on Amazon UK.

Another Peak at The Book Depository.

Another Peak at Waterstones.

And, of course, if you want to read his first book, Icefall, you know where to find that.

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