Turning “I should go outside more” into something that actually happens
I used to think being “outdoorsy” meant long hikes, camping trips, and knowing a lot about gear. That idea made it feel like something you either were or weren’t. But the more time I spent outside, the more I realized it’s much simpler than that. Being outdoorsy isn’t a personality type. It’s a set of small habits.
You don’t need to change your life overnight. You just need to start showing up outside more often.
The Short Answer
To be more outdoorsy:
- Start small and go often
- Choose activities you enjoy
- Make it easy and accessible
- Build it into your routine
- Gradually try new things
It’s about consistency, not intensity.
1. Start With Simple Outdoor Time
You don’t need to begin with big adventures.
Start with:
- Short walks
- Sitting in a park
- Drinking coffee outside
- A quick evening stroll
The goal is to make being outside feel normal, not like an event.
I’ve found that once you start small, it becomes easier to do more without forcing it.
2. Find What You Actually Enjoy
Not everyone enjoys the same outdoor activities.
Try different options:
- Walking or light hiking
- Cycling
- Picnics or reading outside
- Visiting parks or nature spots
If you enjoy it, you’ll repeat it. That’s what matters most.
3. Remove Barriers
The easier it is, the more likely you are to go.
Simple ways to reduce friction:
- Keep outdoor shoes ready
- Have a go-to route nearby
- Don’t overpack or overplan
If it takes too much effort to start, you’ll delay it.
4. Make It Part Of Your Routine
Habits stick when they fit into your day.
Try:
- Going outside after meals
- Taking a walk after work
- Starting your morning outdoors
You’re not adding something new. You’re attaching it to something you already do.
5. Don’t Wait For Perfect Conditions
If you only go outside when:
- The weather is perfect
- You feel highly motivated
You won’t go often.
Instead:
- Accept imperfect days
- Dress appropriately
- Keep it short if needed
Consistency matters more than conditions.
6. Slowly Try New Outdoor Activities
Once you feel comfortable, expand a little.
You might:
- Try a longer hike
- Visit a new trail
- Go on a simple camping trip
You don’t need to rush. Curiosity is enough.
7. Go With Other People (Sometimes)
Being outdoors with others can:
- Make it more enjoyable
- Keep you accountable
- Introduce you to new activities
But solo time is valuable too. A mix works well.
Three Common Mistakes
1. Thinking You Need To Be “Experienced”
You don’t. You just need to start.
2. Overcomplicating It
Too much planning creates resistance.
3. Trying To Do Too Much Too Fast
Leads to burnout instead of habit.
A Quick Aside About Identity
At some point, being outdoorsy stops being something you try to become. It becomes something you naturally do. That shift happens through repetition, not effort.
My Personal Takeaway
Being more outdoorsy is about frequency, not intensity. Start small, make it enjoyable, and remove anything that makes it harder than it needs to be. Over time, stepping outside becomes part of your normal routine. And that’s when the real change happens.