Life Lessons Learned While Elk Hunting

I’ve hunted a lot of elk. I’ve guided a lot of elk hunts as well. If I’ve learned one thing it’s that elk hunting parallels life… and life isn’t fair. Be careful what you ask for, ’cause you just might get it.

1. You’re not as good as you think you are.
2. Once you get to the top, there’s usually something higher.
3. The “top” is windy, cold and sometimes lonely.
4. If there’s not a trail, make your own.
5. If you have a choice, take the high trail.
6. Sometimes the Herd Bull’s a dink.
7. Persistence pays off. Put in the time.
8. Take the “easy” ones when you can. You’ll earn ‘em. Trust me.
9. Easy is a relative term.
10. Lean on your strengths.
11. Improve your weaknesses. Be honest.
12. The smart ones keep their mouth shut.
13. Shoot Straight.
14. Don’t shoot too far.
15. Be aggressive, but know when to back off.
16. Sometimes it happens when you least expect it.
17. Get up early. Work hard. Stay late.
18. Practice will never make you perfect, but it will make you better.
19. Your buddy who gets his elk every year isn’t lucky. He’s good. Figure out how he does it.
20. Sometimes you get what you want and it still stinks.

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