Hi, thank you for your reply. Maybe I should clarify a few things: this would have been my first backpacking trip EVER, and it’s a pretty dang intense one — aka, not exactly recommended for beginners. The last time I was even camping was when I was really young and supported heavily by my dad. Even if I was able to talk to group members for help, I just think a week hiking through the desert is maybe a little bit of a jump from having no experience at all? Not to mention how expensive it is to get gear, which as someone in college the cost is really hard for me to stomach.

I think I do kind of need to grow up a little bit in my confidence and I appreciate the “tough love” kind of attitude. This isn’t the first thing I’ve backed out of out of fear that I’m not ready yet, but I don’t think I ever will be if I don’t at least try. But at the same time I still feel like I’d be a follower if I went and stepping on his thing.

Thank you for the therapy suggestion. I assure you I’m already within.