Are you making choices based on an idea or reality? If a snowstorm is forecasted, do you amend your plans in anticipation of the storm’s impact, or do you wait until there is sufficient accumulation to hinder your progress? If you take precautions and the total snowfall is minimal, the journey could have continued, and being off-trail feels unnecessary. If you press on and the snowfall is significant you might find yourself trapped at high elevation with few options for safe retreat.

How do you assess an idea versus reality? How much priority do you assign to one over the other?