Bobo isn’t really the most enthusiastic about heights. Believe us, not everyone is, but that doesn’t hold him back from reaching his goals. It is just a matter of staying calm, tough, and having an eye on the prize. You know, just like Bruno. One-eyed yet hawkeye!

It’s pretty easy to begin. Start by setting climbing goals. Bobo will patiently feel out the situation so he can get comfortable. Goals are Bobo’s thing. Without them, he will feel lost and so should you. So make sure you know where you are going before setting out on a futile climbing mission.

Be inspired by Bobo’s patience. Set short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals. He may be shy but he knows what he’s doing. At the same time, a little bit of Bruno doesn’t hurt. With his tough, warrior-like mentality, Bruno brings the tenacity that some goals require.

Short-Term Goals

These are the things you can accomplish in three to six weeks. Short-term goals include finishing a bouldering problem or route that may be difficult for you. Maybe you fall at the crux of a specific route every time. Be persistent and keep working on that route. One day you will send!

Mid-Term Goals

Mid-term goals are things that you can accomplish within three to six months. These goals should push your grade level higher. Bobo, who is a little shy at first, can hang around the crashpad with you while you contemplate the movements. But with a little coaxing, he’ll definitely hang around to accompany you as you develop self-confidence conquering problem after problem. If you’re currently climbing 5.8 grades, try to flirt with the 5.10a range within six-twelve months.

Hey, it takes a lot of courage to try something again after you’ve fallen! So yeah, keep that chalky chin of yours up.

Long-Term Goals

Long-term goals can be intimidating. But also remember that you have two years to accomplish these goals. Let some of Bruno’s toughness and chalk rub off on you, and try to push your grade level one or two higher than your mid-term goal. If you’re currently 5.8 grades, set to climb 5.11-5.12 grades in two years.

Set goals that are attainable. Unattainable goals are frustrating and discouraging. Bobo knows. Being realistic has kept him from getting himself in really hairy situations.

Among the broader goals, set smaller ones. For example, if you struggle with stemming (climbing routes in a corner with your arms and legs on both sides of the corner), challenge yourself to climb more routes that require stemming.

Setting climbing goals is similar to setting life goals (and, ahem, finding the right chalk bag buddy.) The effort you put in will be reflected in your results. Setting goals is truly about gaining confidence in your abilities. The most significant hurdle in attaining goals is conquering negative thinking.

The more you think you can’t, you’re right.

The more you think you can, you’re right.   

So be a little like Bruno and a little like Bobo in setting your goals. As long as you keep improving, you are going in the right (upward) direction.

EAT MORE CHALK!