As the summer begins to draw to a close, my backcountry adventures have proven one thing to me and that is this: I need to stop doubting myself. That is obviously much easier said than done. It's impossible to always trust yourself and every decision you make. However, if you don't put at least a little trust in yourself and your abilities, you will be left going through life as if you are much worse at what you do than you actually are. Here's what I mean: if you keep thinking that you're bad at your job, or at making friends or something like that, then you will always be bad at that.

My job for the summer was something that I happened upon without much further consideration. I've never been in a leadership position before, and I'd never had much experience with retail and selling things. Yet here I was, in charge of my own trading post, and honestly, I've been afraid. Every move I make leaves me wondering if I could've done it better, or done something differently. It wasn't until a conversation I had with my boss that I realized that I need to learn to let go. Yes, it's great to be able to improve on mistakes and to know what to do in the future, but it shouldn't keep you from knowing that you're doing well.

I have a message for everyone who is unsure of whether or not they are doing well at something, and that is this; you're doing amazing. You are putting in all of your best efforts, all of your best work and you are doing so much better than you think. Don't go through each day thinking that someone could be doing your job better, or that you are failing every single day because that is just simply not true. If I, the socially awkward writer can run a store, and communicate with customers every day, then you can do whatever you set your mind to.

I know that sounds silly and ideal, but it's true. I have had my struggles this summer. I am not always happy or not always sure of my decision to take this job, but in the end, I realize that I am currently conquering something that I never thought I could do. Sometimes going out of your comfort zone, and doing something that you may not be completely sure about is the best way to live your life. Because all the nights of hardship and hard work will leave you ultimately looking back so incredibly proud of yourself and all that you accomplished.

So believe in yourself. Be confident. Be brave. Be daring. Love your life and live your life and conquer your fears. You'll love yourself for it one day, I know you will.

If you would like to read more about my summer adventures please click the button and follow me here on Odyssey.

If you would like to see photos from my summer (as I will post them whenever I'm in base camp) feel free to follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caity_joy/