Imposter Syndrome
If you haven’t heard about it, it sucks! Anyone you have gone through an advanced program, graduated from one grade to another, or just struggled in a role, probably experienced this more than most. For me, its a monkey on my back that gives me wet willies every half hour while singing “Its a small world after all” in the other ear! In short, it’s the feeling of not being good enough, but amplified. Google it when you get a chance. But a year or so ago, I got the chance to talk on the subject in this podcast that I linked below. I hate hearing myself, so you take a listen and let me know how I did/ if you feel the same way.
2017 Mongolian Trip
Where Should I Have My First Camping Experience? Mongolia, Maybe?
So you want to camp in Mongolia? Bold move, champ. Let me warn you now: it’s not some Disney-style nature stroll with birds singing and chipmunks folding your laundry. I learned this the hard way. In the summer of 2018, I spent 23 days on a scientific expedition in the Mongolian wilderness, and by the end of it, I was basically a feral woodland creature with Wi-Fi withdrawal.
If you’re committed to this chaos, then listen up. These tips might actually save your life—or at least prevent a meltdown in the middle of the steppe.
Tip #1: Don’t Sleep Next to a Tree
Two reasons, cupcake: ANTS AND LIGHTNING.
The ants in Mongolia operate like a coordinated military unit. They see shade, they invade. And if your sleeping bag happens to be under that shade? Congratulations, you’re now an Airbnb host for insects.
Then there’s the lightning. Summer storms pull up like uninvited relatives, and lightning LOVES tall trees. You sleep under one, you might get the kiss of death, or at minimum, a very rude awakening.
Tip #2: Schedule Your Potty Breaks Like They’re Work Meetings
Two reasons, buttercup: SPACE AND RAIN.
Picture this: you’re in Mongolia, and 50% of the time there are ZERO trees. Not one. Not a polite shrub. Just flat, open land where your butt is visible from space.
If you’re camping with other humans, you’ll need to strategically plan your squat time. And because it rains constantly in the summer, the last thing you want is a bathroom emergency in a thunderstorm. That’s how trauma is made.
When clouds roll in, handle ALL biological business immediately. Don’t gamble. You’ll lose.
Tip #3: Avoid This Plant Like It’s Your Toxic Ex
One reason, Tinker Bell: PAIN.
Stinging nettle. This green menace is EVERYWHERE, and it exists solely to ruin your day. Touch it and you’ll feel like your skin is trying to file a complaint with HR. Sit on it? May God have mercy on your soul.
You’ll question your life choices, scream internally, and briefly understand what medieval torture felt like.
Tip #4: You Better Like Meat
One reason, snowball: THAT’S WHAT THEY HAVE.
There are 21 times more livestock than people in Mongolia. Twenty-one. So yes, you will eat meat. You will eat all kinds of meat. Some you’ve heard of. Some you haven’t. Some you won’t tell your friends about until they’re drunk and you want to shock them.
If you think you’re going to survive on salad, good luck—your lettuce will be imaginary.
Tip #5: Vodka Is Basically a Food Group
One reason, sugar pie: CULTURAL TRADITION + PRACTICAL SURVIVAL.
In Mongolia, vodka is the answer to everything.
Cold? Drink vodka.
Happy? Vodka.
Sad? Vodka.
Stomachache? Vodka.
Existential dread? You guessed it—vodka.
If someone says “cheers,” prepare your liver. If you don’t drink vodka, bring your own alternative because you will be offered some at least once a day. It’s like hydration, but more fun.
Alright, honeybuns—that’s the best advice you're getting from me today. Mongolia can be your favorite adventure or your villain origin story. Pack smart, stay alert, and don’t touch the nettle.
And remember the #1 rule of traveling: embrace the unknown.
One reason, soldier: ADVENTURE.
Sometimes you have to get uncomfortable to experience something unforgettable. Mongolia is waiting. Jump in—and try not to get electrocuted.