1) What mantra did O’Brady keep repeating to himself as he pushed through his intense mountain climb?
2) What type of injury occurred to him while on a trip to Thailand? Was the injury minimal or significant?
3) O’Brady’s mother arrived into the hospital room a few days later. Did her presence inspire him in various ways? In what ways?
4) A year and a half after his accident, what event did he sign up for, and win first place against all medical odds? 5) He describes the Explorer’s Grand Slam. Describe what kind of expedition this is, what it entails, and how much mental strain you think this requires.
6) Describe Mount Everest’s “Death Zone” and why it is such a dangerous place on Earth. How do you think the physical strain influences mental capabilities?
7) What strengthened O’Brady’s steps as he approached the summit of Mount Everest? If you were in a similar situation, what/who would you think of?
8) Once Jenna calls her husband, O’Brady, what new challenge did she bring up with her words “Colin, I need you to put your boots back on?” Would you have pushed back the hike to another time, or push through as Colin did in order to win another record?
9) Why does O’Brady carry a rock with him everyday? What recommendations does he give to harden mental resolve, set goals, and climb your own Mount Everest?
10) Personal Commentary Question: Each of us deals with hardships each day, placing mental barriers between ourselves and our goals. We all strive to push through these thoughts, as some of the Manifest Destiny explorers/adventurers/migrants did .
Describe your understanding of mental fortitude and its influence on our daily lives, goals, long-term accomplishments, and more.
In what ways do you practice “pushing forward” with your goals? Do you ever encounter obstacles, and if so, how do you respond? Discuss freely.
