40 In My 40s | Hiking 40 Times Over the Next Decade

Kicking off another #40InMy40s goal!

The 40 In My 40s campaign is about choosing experiences that shape who we become—not just what we accomplish. Some goals build strength. Others build perspective.

This one does both.

Hiking 40 times over the next decade is a commitment to movement, reflection, and reconnecting with what truly matters—step by intentional step.

It’s not about summiting the tallest peaks or logging the most miles. It’s about showing up, going outside, and letting the journey do its work.

Why Hiking Belongs in This Season of Life

Life often moves fast—careers, families, responsibilities, calendars packed tight. Hiking forces a different rhythm.

On the trail:

• There is no rush

• Progress is measured one step at a time

• The destination matters, but so does the path

  
  

Hiking creates space—mentally, physically, and emotionally—to breathe again.

The Physical & Mental Benefits of Hiking

Hiking is one of the most accessible and effective forms of movement, offering benefits that compound over time.

🥾 Functional Strength & Endurance

Hiking improves cardiovascular health, builds lower-body strength, enhances balance, and supports joint stability—all while being low-impact and sustainable long term.

🧠 Mental Clarity & Stress Reduction

Time on the trail has been shown to reduce stress hormones, quiet mental noise, and improve mood. The repetitive rhythm of walking creates a natural reset for the mind.

🔄 Consistency Over Intensity

Unlike extreme fitness goals, hiking encourages longevity. It’s about returning again and again—allowing health to be built through consistency, not burnout.

Reconnecting With Nature

Nature has a way of reminding us who we are—and how small our worries often are.

On a hike:

• Phones go silent

• Senses wake up

• Perspective shifts

  
  

The sound of wind through trees, sunlight breaking through clouds, the steady crunch of gravel underfoot—these moments ground us in the present.

Hiking reconnects us to creation, to simplicity, and to a pace of life that feels more human.

The Purpose Behind the Goal

This commitment isn’t accidental—it’s intentional by design.

Hiking 40 times over a decade creates:

• Markers of seasons and stages of life

• Opportunities for reflection during transition

• Space for prayer, gratitude, and clarity

• Shared experiences with friends, family, or solitude

  
  

Each hike becomes a checkpoint—not just on a map, but in life.

Where was I when I walked this trail? What was I carrying then? What did I leave behind?

Why This Belongs in 40 In My 40s

This goal represents:

• Choosing presence over productivity

• Movement as stewardship of health

• Nature as a teacher

• Growth that happens quietly, steadily, intentionally

  
  

Hiking reminds us that progress doesn’t require speed—just direction.

That aligns perfectly with STRIVE.

Hike Number 1 - Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center

August 23rd, 2025 - Had the chance to hike three miles today to kick off this goal. Started with an easy enough hike without too much climbing. Brought the kids today to join in on the adventure. Today at Ernie Miller Park & Nature Center in Olathe, Kansas.

The park, maintained through Johnson County Parks & Recreation, is a free park to the public, offering scenic trails along the Little Cedar Creek Streamway. The park also offers a nature center, which allows visitors to see animals up close and learn about the natural area.

Ernie Miller Park is a 125-acre nature park and very accessible.

An Invitation to Begin

You don’t need expensive gear, epic destinations, or perfect weather.

You need:

• A trail

• A pair of shoes

• A willingness to begin

  
  

Start with one hike. Let it turn into another.

Because sometimes the most meaningful growth doesn’t happen in boardrooms or on screens—but on a quiet trail, one step at a time.

This is 40 In My 40s. This is movement with meaning. This is intentional living—rooted, steady, and forward. 🌿🥾