This text was finalized while listening to this music.
Challenges shape life, and often, all we can control is how we want to respond to what happens to us. When faced with adversity, do you confront it or shy away? Do you take charge, or do you retreat to a safe space? Think for a while and try to be brutally honest with yourself.
Our choices in these moments define our journey, crafting paths to growth or stagnation. I want to share with you, at the end of 2024, a story that involves a long relationship with my fridge, an appliance that turned out to be an unexpected teacher in my life.
Since I moved into my countryside home, my fridge has been my trusty companion for 16 years. Together, we’ve shared countless meals, memories, and magnetic poetry (more than 30 magnets are glued to the door). It was spacious and inviting, with a gentle light that made those midnight snacks feel like a feast. 
(a picture of my old fridge already near the door waiting to be picked up)
Then, one day, without warning, my beloved fridge began to beep. At first, I dismissed it as a minor glitch, a momentary alarm that would resolve itself. But as the beeping grew incessantly, I realized that the real issue lay not with the fridge but with how I chose to respond. It was beeping at all hours—day or night—turning my peaceful kitchen into a chaotic symphony of sound.
In my quest for a solution, I called for help, only to find that being an old model, repairs were out of reach. Staring at the relentless noise, I faced a stark reality: I could either ignore it, which proved increasingly difficult, switch it off—risking spoiled food—or, as I so often did, put on my metaphorical (and also real) headphones to drown it out.
This noisy fridge became a poignant metaphor for my life. How often do we allow unwelcome distractions to occupy our minds? What toxic relationships, overwhelming responsibilities, or stagnant habits are we tolerating? When faced with discomfort, do we seek to confront it, or do we instead choose the temporary relief of distraction?
This December, after much contemplation, I made a significant choice—I decided to embrace change and invest in a new fridge. Once a cherished part of my home, the old one will soon be retired. Some things cannot be repaired, and if you do not make the hard decision, it can drag you to a very dark place.
(looking good the new fridge)
As we near the end of the year, I invite you to consider your own “noisy fridges.” What elements in your life need to be recognized, replaced, or removed? This is the season of reflection and resolution—a chance to start anew.
Remember, it’s not about avoiding discomfort but confronting it head-on. Don’t bow your head in surrender; instead, rise with intention. Embrace those challenges, for they hold the potential for transformation. By letting go of what no longer serves you, you create space for new opportunities and growth…and maybe even a new fridge :)
So, as we close out this year, take a moment to listen to the beeping in your life. Decide to reclaim your peace and find the courage to make the necessary changes. Don’t just put on your headphones—make the choice to step into your power and transform your life. In the meantime, keep walking with us🚶♂️ changing the world one person at a time, one step at a time.
What have we been doing?
Podcast
This month, we had the pleasure of hosting Alex Farlander. Alex designs meaningful Journeys, but he is more than traveling; he is a deep thinker and modern-day philosopher. He believes that conscious business has a huge role to play if we want a better world. That’s why, for many years, Alex has invested most of his time and resources in studying and developing a positive-impact travel business. It’s a challenging task. There’s been much to learn – and still much more to figure out. But it’s essential, so it needs to be done. That’s why he does it. Come and join us on a walk with Alex Farlander, a beautiful human being. Thank you, Alex Farlander 🌏! Listen here
Alex website – Alex on Instagram @alexfarlander – Alex Linkedin
Programs
The last weeks have been amazing and we hardly could keep it up with the video editing :) Great news! We love to be outside walking and talking with beautiful people. We share below some of the highlights of our latest programs. Enjoy!
We have “discovered” a new route in Serras do Porto and could not resist to take the Burn(out) Stress program and a wonderful group of people to test it :) A great partnership with Encontrar+se.
Watch the video here
In Sintra we had the pleasure and honor to walk with the organization Young Parkies (check here the amazing work they do) and give a little contribution to help and support the future mentors of this incredible organization that helps young people diagnosed with Parkinson.
Watch the video here
In Oct we returned to one of our favorite destinations. We took an amazing group of people to walk in Costa Vicentina along the fisherman trail and experience our flagship program Destination You!
Watch the video here
It was our first time in Vigado, a true hidden gem in the north of Portugal. An incredible experience were we had the pleasure to open the ACA summit, one of the most successful construction companies that is pushing the borders for future development.
Watch the video here
Finally, we had the opportunity to deliver a program within a collaboration with Porto Business School and IE Business school. It is inspiring to see that the business leaders of tomorrow are committed to start their careers balancing body and mind. Thumbs up!
Watch the video here
Upcoming Programs
As we approach the end of the year you can start already planning for 2025, the road to your better version is waiting for you.
SLOW DOWN – 4 places
Are you ready to escape the chaos of daily life and reconnect with your true self? Join mentors João and Tatiana for the Slow Down program in the South of France and open up Spring in the beautiful fields of Provence. Apply here
CAMINO – 2 places
Join the mentors Nuno and João on “The Way.” In April we are back in the Camino for one more journey of self-discovery. Explore your needs, and obstacles that keep you from your potential. Apply here
PARENTS & KIDS – 4 places
The Parents and Kids program is truly a gem. It only happens once a year and we know that there is a right time to do such experiences with your son/daughter, this is year it might be your turn. Don´t be late. Apply here.
FRANCIGENA – 6 places
At the end of August you know where to find us. Up in the mountains and walking across the Alps. We are back at Via Francigena with our flagship program Destination you. Apply here.
How can we walk together?
Walking Mentorship is a labor of love that helps you gain deeper insight and equips you to create a meaningful impact on your life and those around you.
How can we work together? We keep things simple by offering, Individual, Group and Corporate programs. Find the best fit for you and book a call with one of our mentors.
Until then, keep walking with me,
Copyright (C) | 2024 | Walking Mentorship. All rights reserved.
Walking Mentorship is a trusted mentoring experience where you can Slow Down, Reconnect, Gain perspective, and Take Action. Based on different mentoring formats, It sounds like walking, but it is a self-development tool. We support individuals and organizations around the globe, creating a more meaningful life and the ability to turn it into an action plan.
