Skiing is to Life

When it comes to skiing, there’s a difference between what you think it’s going to be like, what it’s really like, and what you tell your friends it was like.”

That’s so true. And, one could argue, the same goes for life. How else is skiing similar to life?

The more skills you have, the more positive the adventure will turn out. We all have our strengths, but there’s no harm in learning new things. The more you try, the more you know how to do. And, in the end, the woman with the necessary skills survives.

You get what you pay for. My mom taught me to save where I can and spend on the important stuff but never pay full price. Even as Colorado’s best bargain finder, I’ve found that shelling out the cash (note: I never said full price) for a good ski setup that fits well and suits your needs is always worth it. I just have to advise that, when buying safety equipment (avy gear, harnesses, and helmets), you don’t skimp. Ancient equipment is less dependable and will wear out soon anyway—unless it’s already worn out (very likely). Know where your gear has been and how it’s been used to ensure you aren’t banking your life on a device that’s abused.

Sometimes it is smooth and easy, and sometimes it’s a bumpy ride. But, in the end, you always end up where you wanted to be.

It pays to be prepared. This is true of any outdoor activity. Pack light but be smart. For example: If you’re debating whether to take blister-preventing action, stop debating and do it. Blisters are a bitch.

Knowledge is key… to good judgment. One too many times, I’ve followed trusted friends into the woods (or down ski slopes) without having done my own research or knowing my own way or having my own gear. Know what you’re getting yourself into and follow your own instincts, whether in adventure or life (what’s the difference, these days).

Light trumps darkness. So carry the light with you. Matches, like a bright spirit, prove a handy tool. You’ll appreciate having the means to create light and warmth when situations turn dark and cold.

It never works out as planned. Backcountry skiing particularly opens doors for the unexpected. “The unexpected” most commonly includes dense woods, bare slopes, boulder gardens, creeks and cravasses, etc. It may also include deep power, untouched terrain, friendly fellows, blue skies, and wildlife. The former category often makes for a marvelously miserable time and sets the bar so low than even mediocre experiences from then on seem wonderful. Difficult conditions also push your limits, ultimately resetting your perception of what’s possible, and helping you realize you’re capable beyond your belief. The latter sort of “the unexpected” makes for marvelously fun skiing and a great time outdoors plus sets high expectations for your next few outings. However, after encountering either type of “the unexpected,” the stories are fun to share.

The analogy only goes so far though. Skiing is sometimes not at all like life.

How skiing differs from life

• The fatter the skis, the floatier—the easier to maneuver through the deep shit. Not true when it comes to your body.
• When skiing, you don’t have a care in the world. But life is full of cares.
• Life is a bit more of an uphill slog than a downhill slide.
• The more snow, the more fun. Not true when it comes to your daily commute.
• At work, the grocery store, and downtown on a Sunday afternoon, passersby will stare if you’re wearing neon colors paired with several clashing patterns. But, on the slopes, anything goes. No one will look twice, no matter how obnoxious the get up.

Whether you see the similarities of life and skiing or don’t, there’s one thing on which we’ll likely agree: Always, always, always party hard and ski harder.