Grandma Emma Gatewood never believed the words, “You can’t.” At the age of 67, she solo-hiked the entire length of the Appalachian Trail. Stretching 2,026 miles from Georgia to Maine, Grandma Gatewood faced the wild wilderness including snakes, bears, raging rivers, and fierce storms, as well as the stigma of a woman traveling alone in 1955. With only thin sneakers and a drawstring sack, she had everything going against her. She just always knew she could.

How often do you say “I can’t” instead of “I can?” Sometimes it’s easy to listen to that negative voice.

So how do you combat negativity? How do you thrive?

Like Grandma Gatewood, you find opportunities and supporters along the way.

Inexperienced? Learn more skills and practice.

Lacking resources? Improvise, innovate, and scavenge if you have to.

Need help? Accept the generosity of strangers.

Feeling alone? Find solace in nature.

This inspiring book has lessons we can all relate to. My family and I have been hiking the Appalachian Trail in sections over many years. It’s tough and beautiful. And I can’t wait to go back again.