I promised a review after I finished so here it is. This was the first real goal I have set in climbing. By 'real' I mean it conforms to the rules laid out in Eric Hörst's article here. Goals like this are a crucial step towards meaningful improvement over a climbing career. Each one of my climbing sessions suddenly gained purpose. Was I moving forward towards my goal? By defining my goal, defining my current level, and making a roadmap to close that gap, I had a plan every time I went to the gym. It also changed my attitude at the crag. I had a limited number of days so every one had to count. I could not leave a route for another time, it needed to get done, today. This limitation forced focus and perseverance, qualities that I didn't have in the past. I am glad Lewis provided the spark and hope the link above helps others set good goals for the new year.
Last year I made the goal of climbing 12, 5.12s in the year 2012. I climbed my first on June 30th, and had 2 layoffs from other life that got in the way. 12 in a calendar year still appeared to me, and was a fairer goal to myself since I essentially had less than 6 months left in 2012. It took a while to build momentum, but I kept meeting psyched partners and things started falling into place. I couldn't have done it without the support of all the friends and family who care for me. Each of my first 12 5.12s had a different belayer, something I'm really proud of because each send has a story to it as well. I finished 55 days ahead of my deadline, with two of my most important sends so far, my first 5.12c's.
Goals are entirely personal, and private, I usually don't brag but I am soo stoked this all came together for me. 6 more routes to go and then I need a new ticklist.
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