Life Lessons From Climbing Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s Tallest Mountain
On September 2, 2024, I stood at Low's Peak, the summit of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s tallest mountain.
It was a dream realised.
A personal triumph.
A wtf-pinch-me moment.
That experience left a profound and lasting mark on my life, and as I reflect on it, I can’t help but share the lessons I learned. Because honestly? That mountain taught me far more about life than I ever expected.
Key Takeaways From Climbing Mount Kinabalu
- Taking action is the only way to make goals a reality.
- Surround yourself with the right people to overcome challenges.
- Strength, resilience, and joy come from the journey—not just the summit.
Why Climbing Mount Kinabalu Taught Me the Power of Action
I spent over 10 years talking about climbing Mount Kinabalu. Ten. Years. And yet, it took me just 31 days to make it a reality once I decided to act.
Talking about dreams is easy. It doesn’t make them real. Action is what brings them to life.
How Preparing For Mount Kinabalu Shaped My Experience
The climb itself was tough, but what truly made it meaningful was the work I put in beforehand. Training every day, building strength, and preparing mentally shaped my experience far more than just reaching the summit.
The way you show up for the journey - not just the destination - is what defines it.
The Role of Support Systems in Big Challenges
When you’re at your lowest, the people around you become your anchor and rudder. They show you the way forward, cheer you on, and carry you through doubts you couldn’t face alone.
I learned that the right support crew can make all the difference - not just on a mountain, but in life.
Why Solo Adventures Like Mount Kinabalu Aren't Lonely After All
It took me 10 years to commit to this climb, even if it meant going solo. But as soon as I said yes to the adventure, I found myself surrounded by the most incredible support system.
Sometimes, taking that first step into the unknown is all it takes to find your people.
Finding Joy and Making It Fun Changes Everything
Why push yourself to do things that make you miserable?
I chose to find joy in the process whether it was laughing with my crew, soaking in the views, or celebrating the small victories along the way. Making it fun made it all worthwhile.
Strength Doesn't Happen Overnight
Strength isn’t a destination, it’s a practice. It’s something you work at daily - physically, mentally, emotionally. Every step forward, no matter how small, is proof that you’re growing.
You’re stronger than you think. Keep going.
Prepare the Best You Can, Then Trust the Journey
I trained religiously for 30 days, only to see thunderstorms in the forecast for summit day. Was I disappointed? Sure. But I reconciled with the fact that not everything is within my control.
I chose to trust the process and be proud of myself, no matter the outcome.
Be Open. Stay Open.
The journey is unpredictable. The good, the bad, and the magical will show up when you least expect it.
I learned to let go, adapt, and embrace whatever came my way. Life’s beauty is in its surprises, if you stay open to receiving them.
Why Setting Personal Goals Is a Form of Self-Care
Loving yourself isn’t always about spa nights and bubble baths (though those are great). It’s also about challenging yourself to grow.
Set goals. Dream big. Strive for new experiences. Through every high, low, and in-between moment, you’ll find that you’re building a life worth loving.
The Adventure Wasn’t Just the Mountain
I thought my adventure would end when I reached the summit.
But I learned that the real adventure is life itself. The mountain was just a part of it - a reminder of what’s possible when we show up for ourselves.
More on the blog