Climbing Kilimanjaro taught me that some clichés are true for a reason. Here’s how four well-worn sayings came to life on Africa’s tallest peak—and how they can apply to everyday life.

Kilimanjaro was more than a mountain. It was a journey of grit, heartbreak, and transformation. Here’s what I learned about slowing down, celebrating the small wins, and finding joy in the climb, not just the peak.

Midnight starts, frozen bladders, bloody noses, tears, and finally the highest point in Africa—summit day on Kilimanjaro was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.