AKA how to be a good person.

Intrapersonal skills

→ Know your own limits. “No, I don’t think I can push to the next hut.”
→ Be willing to speak up in a group and give space for others’ voices too.
→ Get to know your own stress management strategy. For example, Box breathing, Stop Think Act Review, and many more…

Interpersonal skills

→ Own your mistakes and ask for help
→ Get to know when your partner needs encouragement vs. space
→ Ask if/how they need support right now
→ Respect boundaries (conversation topics, physical space, challenging limits…)

Technical skills

→ Do your research. Know the route and the gear you’ll need. Don’t assume your partner does.
→ Practice your rescue skills. Sure your partner may be experienced, but what if they get hurt?
→ Split the group gear fairly. That doesn’t always mean evenly.
→ Take on camp jobs! Especially the ones no one wants to do (dishes). If you don’t know how – ask!

While walking

→ Adjust your pace! No slinky stops (leaving as soon as the back catches up)
→ Be active in navigation, no matter if you’re at the back. Don’t be a sheep.
→ Most importantly… Always be the one with summit snacks