A friend who was learning to climb once asked me to name the three most important things to remember about rock climbing. My advice to him is really an insight into my own mentality as a climber, so if you want a quick look at my credo, here it is:

1) Enjoy yourself. Climbing is always good, even when you don't climb as well or as gracefully as you'd like. The only thing that can detract from the joy of the climbing experience is your own attitude. It's easy to forget this when you're having an off-balance day, but you'll reach a state of flow when you truly understand that the best climber is the one having the best time.

2) Be tenacious when you're on a route. Sometimes you're tempted to let go or give up. Have a little faith and try anyway, even when you're tired, feel awkward about a move, or think something is out of reach. Sure you might fall off, but you might just surprise yourself. Temper this with good judgment: sometimes you need to let go and save your strength for another attempt - it's no fun to get pumped out and have to cut short your climbing day. But yield for physical reasons, not mental ones.

3) Be safe, and stay healthy. Obviously, the heights involved in climbing demand a certain respect: always remember to check knots, belays, rappels, and crash pad setups. Nothing puts a stop to your fun more quickly than an accident. Also, as your climbing muscles strengthen, the tendons and ligaments in your hands, arms, and shoulders will begin to take lots more load than they're really designed for. Be aware of this and make sure not to injure them - it's all too easy to do, and they don't heal quickly. As I said before, the goal is to keep having fun without getting interrupted.

Now you know me a little bit better! And if you love climbing as much as I do, I'd love to get to know you too. If you want a partner with a flexible schedule, tons of climbing gear, and lots of enthusiasm, you've found your teammate. Whether you're a veteran looking for a partner who can help you send your project or a complete newby trying to learn the ropes, just let me know, and we'll go climbing.