You’re So Fly: Andy Cornett
We were overjoyed to welcome Andy Cornett as our latest You’re So Fly speaker! Andy recently shared his long-distance hiking experiences, providing thoughtful insights about the benefits of being outside. From the obstacles of the route to the clarity that comes with unplugging, his lecture looked at how spending time in nature can have a significant impact on our well being, perspective, and sense of connection. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply enjoy a walk in the woods, Andy’s talk was a welcome reminder of the importance of slowing down and getting outside. We are so grateful to have had Andy come in and speak to us, as not only an entrepreneur but a fellow flywheeler.
What Inspired You to Speak on This Topic Today?
Outdoor adventure fuses together two loves for me – one is being outside in the wildly varying physical environment of our world, and the other is a pull for adventure and exploration. Walking in wilderness spaces combines them for me and is a window into the deeper parts of our human experience in the world. Wilderness is both physical and spiritual geography.
What’s One Key Takeaway You Hope People Remember From Your Talk?
That the wilderness will be a great teacher and guide if you allow it to do its work. There are things we cannot discover and learn if we choose safety and comfort all the time. To me, that is a kind of “withdrawing” that atrophies your muscles of agency (what you can do) and vulnerability (what you experience in dependence). As I shared there – it’s taught be courage to face the truth, an ability to name and confront feelings, and embrace what is – not just want I want to be.
What’s One Piece of Advice You’d Give Someone Just Starting Out as an Entrepreneur?
I’ll share two things, both coming from my own experience.
- Ask yourself WHY you want to do this. As best as you can, answer that question – the personal reason that compels you.
- Admit to yourself that you can control the journey or the outcome. Admitting that, with increasing freedom, has meant a lot to me.
What Experience or Turning Point Helped Shape Your Perspective on This Topic?
A critical one was a six-day loop around Lake Tahoe in 2014. The physical, mental, and emotional challenges of that journey were a reset for me on what’s possible (what I can do) and what’s worth doing (what I want to give myself to). Another was discovering how much beautiful writing exists on wilderness.
Where Can People Go to Learn More or Connect With You?
I’m @andycornett on facebook and instragram — been more dormant lately, but that will change soon. And I have a website (andycornett.com) where I occasionally post things I write or reflect on.
Thank you!
