Keep On Keeping On

I have been hiking countless times to more than 10 volcanoes in Indonesia, most of them taking ~2 days or more, and one of them took 7 days to finish. During the hikes we would not have any cellular connection, which is something I appreciated.

The reason I enjoyed them so much is that I got to be present. The only things that came to mind were either: which trail was less slippery, or how should I get over this tree trunk, or when this unforgiving ascent would ever end. Nothing else, I just got on with it.

And I never even think what the path ahead will look like. I just want to get over the closest step. Of course you need to know the path so you don’t get lost. But I never really think too much of it. All I want is to walk the path, no matter how hard the trail is. I may stop for a bit to check any signs or trail tracks; seconds later, I am already on my way.

Knowing What You Want

I really enjoy hiking because I love being surrounded by greenery, seeing clouds up close, and most importantly, being present in the moment. If only I had known this passion earlier—I would have done so much more hiking!

I’m very grateful to have discovered what I want early in life. I’ll spare you the details. What’s important is knowing what you want and which problems or challenges you’d like to tackle—this is essential for doing great work. If you’re still figuring out what you want, I recommend reading Paul Graham’s essay on How to Do Great Work.

Only by doing will you know what you want and what you don’t want. Once you know what it is, please keep on going.

Knowing vs. Walking the Path

“There is a difference between knowing the path and walking the path”

– Morpheus

Not many people truly understand the meaning of the above quote from The Matrix.

Most people collect knowledge about the path before actually doing it, which is fine. Just like how a doctor learns about certain treatments and their potential implications before treating a patient. Or when you do research & create a business plan before executing it. There are some things you should know before doing anything.

But there is a certain limit to it—don’t let it drag for too long. Because upon doing it, you will realize there is a gap between the knowledge you have and the reality of doing it. Big or small, we should expect that. It can come from internal (things you can control) and external (things you can’t control).

I am writing this as a reminder for myself in the future. Whatever it is that you want in life, be sure to really walk the path—no matter how fast or slow. Try not to waste your time just knowing the path better, because time is the only thing you cannot get back.

The Tortoise & The Hare

I have a close friend who is a truly excellent example of this situation. He started a business back in my university days, speaks little about what he does, isn’t the smartest person in the room, never brags, never even shares his achievements. One thing I admire? He is persistently consistent. He may not be the smartest or quickest person in the room, but I know he will never stop.

His attitude reminds me of that tale of the tortoise and the hare racing. The hare may have more speed but is complacent and frequently stops along the way, while the tortoise, even though slow, eventually wins the race through consistency.

Keep on Keeping On

“Most people overestimate what they can do in one year and underestimate what they can do in ten years.”

– Bill Gates

Life is a marathon, and occasionally we need to sprint certain miles. And, if you are losing your breath for a moment, it’s okay. It is expected.

You have to keep on keeping on, no matter how hard the going may be, it’s a lesson I learned directly from my good friend Sonny. Thank you for being such an inspiration!