Rules, regulations, and routines are meant to keep us safe, keep us all on the same page and bring a sense of order and/or unity to a community or group.

In fact, creating a routine is one of the fastest ways of staying centered in uncertain times. One of the easiest ways to combat uncertainty and chaos is to create a structured plan.

“Not knowing the future creates physical and emotional stress,” says Equitable article, “How Planning for Tomorrow Can Ease Uncertainty Today” “Making the right kind of plan can help you cope—and move forward.”

However, one problem that comes with a routine is that…well, it becomes routine.

There is an art to exploring, adventuring, and dreaming, using the open waters of imagination to break the bonds of banality.

What if, while you make your bed, every morning, you imagine you are shaking out the mainsail of your very own boat. Perhaps you are about to embark on an adventure to discover undersea treasure.

What if, as you plan your day and check off items on your “To-Do List,” you build in a theme, like a hilarious scavenger hunt with your favorite treats as prizes.

What if, you lived one day as a metaphor for something much larger than yourself?

Maybe rock climbing?

In his book, “The Longs Peak Experience and Trail Guide,” author and a fourth-generation Colorado mountaineer, Mike Donahue brings this metaphor to life. “It is every step along the way that makes a climb, and it is every moment along the way that makes a life. The secrets learned in reaching for mountain summits help us reach life’s summits…”

Mike’s expertise spanned his master-level understanding of mountaineering and summiting and his book—part trail guide, part life manual—shines a light on making life a true adventure. From planning and preparation to navigating the battle between your positive and negative inner voice, Mike’s offering is nothing less than an exemplar guide to being a truly, kind, compassionate, and, yes, adventurous human.

Sadly, Mike passed away in November 2005, but his life’s passion and legacy live on. His memorial page says the following:

“Mike acquired a near-religious passion for the mountains along with a mystical sense that many of the world’s troubles would be alleviated if only its people would wander and climb in his beloved mountains. Experiencing intimately the mountains, he thought, would bring about a kind of spiritual transformation and cultivate skills that are of great value in all areas of life.“

When it comes to dreams, Mike Donahue said it best:

“Everything, literally everything begins as a dream… And the more we try and make our dreams come true, the richer, more satisfying, and complete a life we live.

…don’t hold back. Dream on. And dream loud and strong. Every step you take toward fulfilling that dream will bring you richness and fulfillment that is very hard to find in life. So, go on… Dare to Dream!”

Sure, life needs structure and, especially now, it is important to stay safe and secure in every possible way. But, what if, the questions you ask yourself and the fun you have with each and every moment of your life, enhance and enrich your existence, as well as the lives of everyone around you?

What if?

Thanks, Mike.