Almost every day, I reflect on one question: What would 22-year-old Hunter think of 32-year-old Hunter?

That reflection helps me pause and realize that, despite the daily ups and downs, I’ve achieved things I never thought possible.

My guess is, if you paused too, you’d feel the same way about your life. Big or small, your accomplishments are worth celebrating.

Gratitude grounds us in the best version of ourselves—grateful, open, and full of belief in what’s ahead.

In April, I got caught up in things that didn’t matter (as we all do), but I also did the hard daily work to return to what does matter. That work led to something unforgettable: a group of people and a weekend I’ll never forget.

In this newsletter, I want to get real about the trials of self-doubt, the practice of facing it, and what I learned at the event of the year—Camp Savage.

1. DEATH, TAXES, AND OBSTACLES

On Friday morning at Camp, I gave a talk about the only three certainties in life: death, taxes, and adversity.

If you’re someone who leans into growth, expect to face more adversity than those who cling to comfort. Yet many of us still resent adversity, holding onto the false hope that someday we’ll arrive at an unshakable state of happiness.

But smooth seas aren’t the goal—because they’re not real. From now until the end, you’ll face challenges. Not every day will feel good.

So what can you do? Architect a life that maximizes joy. Focus on what you can control. Let go of what you can’t. Pause often. Choose to believe in yourself.

What you can’t do is pretend self-doubt and adversity don’t exist. The feelings you push down will always resurface, louder and messier, if you don’t face them now.

2.SELF DOUBT
I used to get really scared when I felt self-doubt—or what we now call imposter syndrome.

Now, I pause and get curious about where it’s coming from.

Sometimes, it’s completely irrational, like when I asked a confidant mid-Camp Savage if anyone was having fun. Of course they were. But I cared deeply and was seeking validation that it was going well. I’m still working on seeking validation, it’s a bad habit, but the point is that sometimes self doubt doesn’t mean anything is wrong. 

Other times, it’s rational, like when I brought the Foundations Course to Chicago, knowing only a few people and unsure if we could sell tickets. There was an unknown, and I was perceiving doubt that I could find a group of people in a new city. Valid fear, but all I can do is let go and know whoever is meant to be there, will be. 

Whether the voice is rational or not, self-doubt wants to keep you small to avoid discomfort. But if you're truly seeking growth, discomfort isn’t optional.

How you handle that discomfort will shape your entire experience on this journey called life.