“In a galaxy far, far, away…”

As many celebrate #internationalstarwarsday and nerds unite to celebrate this May 4th, ahem - "May The 4th Be With You"...  let’s reflect on the wisdom of the Jedi, The Force, and all those who bring balance to the galaxy. Here are our top eight lessons Star Wars has taught us about Adventure.

1. You Gotta Commit

“Do or do not… there is no try.” – Yoda in The Empire Strikes Back

Whether it's pitching a tarp, starting out on a trek or that first lake dip in the chilly spring water - GO FOR IT.

2. When Weather Strikes Back - You've got to Improvise

 "This may smell bad, kid, but it'll keep you warm until I get the shelter up... Ugh. And I thought they smelled bad on the *outside*" - 

Han Solo : [cutting open his dead Tauntaun and shoving Luke inside]

3. Choose your Campsite Carefully

When his X-wing sinks into the Dagobah swamp, Luke is encouraged by Yoda to use the Force to raise the ship from the depths. But maybe a little recon could have prevented the swamp from engulfing the ship to begin with!

4. Defy the Odds

C-3PO: “Sir, the possibility of successfully navigating an asteroid field is approximately 3,720 to 1.”

“Never tell me the odds.” – Han Solo in The Empire Strikes Back

Even if an asteroid field is hurling towards you and your odds of success are 3,720 to 1, don’t let this daunting ratio prevent you from following your heart. Whatever new adventure challenge you are tackling - just. keep. going. Many times, our bodies are capable of more than our mind believes.

5. Don't Feed The Animals

From Dewbacks to Tauntauns to Banthas...You know what they say.. a FED animal is a DEAD animal... Once they get a taste for human food... or humans - they CAN become at best a nuisance and at worst a nightmare.

7. A Positive Attitude is your First Line of Survival

(as garbage compactor closes in) “One thing’s for sure, we’re all gonna be a lot thinner.” – Han Solo in A New  Hope

When things get tough, it’s natural to freak out. However, freaking out isn’t the most productive or efficient way to solve a problem. Humor lightens the mood and allows everyone time to regroup and reassess the situation. It also keeps spirits high, enabling people to act calm and focus on solving the challenge at hand.

8. All Creatures Have Value 

Every creature in the universe; from Gungans (except for Jar Jar Binks), to Wookies, to Ewoks, to the tauntaun whose warm guts saved Luke - all creatures have value.

8. Choose Your Adventure Partners Wisely

The best friends stand by you through thick and thin, happiness and sadness, success and failure. On the easy trails, the dark paths, and the bumpy roads - your adventure companions can make even the toughest conditions bearable. Ask yourself: Would you risk your life to help your friends destroy a Death Star?

If you’re a Star Wars fan (like we are!) and liked any of the lessons in this blog, let me know your top picks in the comments below and any other lessons you would add!

May the Force be with you....

and especially today #maythe4bewith you