Nudged: Climb 1 of the staircases on my list

Back in August 2022, I was inspired by Guest Nudger Judith Alex to embark on a staircase climbing adventure (“Do Something Touristy”). A couple of months later, I roped my sister into joining me on the inaugural climb (“52+: Bonus Nudges”). I had BIG PLANS to explore my city and check off each of the 21 staircases I had on my list.

I’ve done none since. Nada. Zip.

Fortunately, I know myself pretty well and anticipated this, so I included this week’s Nudge among the other possible Nudges for round 4.0, and here we are.

This is the week we reexamine a project we started with enthusiasm and have since let fizzle out. Maybe it was a creative project (now would be the perfect time to start making handcrafted gifts for the holidays). Maybe it was a professional project, a bonus project that might result in a financial bonus or set you up for promotion. The ingredients or tools might be gathering dust in a corner, or it all might still be a dream in your imagination. Whatever it is, let’s give it another go.

What Happened: Early yesterday morning, I looked at my “San Francisco Staircase” spreadsheet (yes, I made a spreadsheet), googled a couple to see what is nearby, found one that seemed promising, and said to Bear (the puppy), “Let’s do it!”

Twelve minutes later, we faced the Quintara Steps. Deep breath and….

With just a couple of pauses, we reached the top of the 80-foot climb and continued out into a new-to-us neighborhood. What a great day to explore! And, as luck would have it, my audiobook wouldn’t work, so I put myself into full noticing mode.

Architecture ran the gamut from Cape Code to Beach Cottage to French doors opening onto balconies that reminded me of New Orleans. Small plot gardens inspired me with their whimsy and perseverance.

Some of the homes along the way featured art–actual art!–on their walls.

We walked longer than planned, as we were enticed, intrigued and tempted at each corner to explore “just one more block.” I offered a small prayer that my phone’s GPS would help us find our way back to the car, should we get lost. We were fine. Our walk was lovely and exhilarating–for me. My darling walking buddy was tuckered out (see his photo, taken at the end of our adventure) and spent much of the rest of the day in a deep sleep under my desk. What a great finish.

The Ah-Hahs: This was so much fun! Let’s see: got out of my routine, got good exercise, explored my city, oohed and ahhed and delighted my senses. This Nudge was a winner!