The one thing I’ve carried over the years is respect for the miles, and respect for the magnitude of what it is you are accomplishing, especially when it’s the big stuff. A marathon a day? Around 26 miles? You betcha. Respect each and every mile and don’t take anything for granted. Take it slow. Take it with an acute sense of mindfulness. Allow and enjoy the freedom for the brain to roam, but always check in and chart your progress.

That attitude has worked well for me scuba diving as well. Respect the dive plan, what it is you want to accomplish, and the magnitude of what it is you’re doing. Going somewhere you really shouldn’t be able to visit, but can, so long as you respect the equipment on your back and maintain the mindfulness that each and every piece is where it needs to be.