Firstly, i recognise it must be difficult for you and it must have been difficult to talk about this so openly. I think your mood may well be dysthymic (I'm a psychiatric nurse) although you don't meet the two-year diagnostic threshold, you're NOT clinically depressed from what I can see. You've taken a fun hobby and made it your job so, of course, it becomes a job.... blurgh. Covid hasn't helped, we're all stuck in the same sort of time bubble with little moving forward, but it'll get better. You may have lost some fitness but as an Englishman living in NSW we often have heatwaves similar to what you're experiencing and I really struggle in the heat and I'm generally a fit mountain biker and road biker. Take a step back, try some mindfulness or meditation. Think about what you enjoyed about the sport in the beginning and focus on that. Eat healthily, talk to your friends/family, sleep well and if you still feel low maybe see a counselor to just to take stock. All the best, Daniel.
Hey Paul, thanks for making this video. It cool to hear your thoughts and I think a lot of people have been struggling over this past year. Mountain biking is such a huge community and exploration based sport and everyone having to be so separate the past year it’s been a different feel for sure. I know for me I can totally relate to the “how many times can I ride the same trail” thing. Especially after being used to traveling and racing 20+ times a year. I can’t wait until we can come up to Canada again and ride some fun stuff with you and if you feel like riding some fast flowy trails come back down to Idaho and visit when you can. Your stoke will come back, sometimes it just takes a little break from things to really appreciate them again! Keep your head up. Kyle
Hey Kyle, I posted a reply for Paul that I think I sent to yourself & April. Apart from the psychology side biochemistryhas a huge part to do with it. Myokines are a recently found chemical signalling. But instead of me trying to explain it. Dr Doug McGuff is a incredible guy who explains it in this Podcast. . ruclips.net/video/aie1AgEXikY/видео.html
I agree totally. but then here in coastal BC there is no such thing as a 'go for a cruise' trail, unlike Arizona. It's mostly an all in commitment to the jank here.
I honestly think it is a risky path, turning a passion into a job - as it can take away the joy. I MTB to escape, relax, have fun, its an outlet. I can't imagine losing that outlet, by turning it into a job or a living. Kudos to those of you who can make it work, because I love your content!
very true. I had the passion for Linux and IT tech when a teen... now I'm a 10+ years of experience IT dude... I hate computers. But love mountain biking :D
Sportbikes (motorcycles) were my life. I road raced with the AFM for years, went to Motorcycle Mechanics school and became a mechanic. Now 20 years later I never ride motorcycles on the weekends and I quit racing years ago. I absolutely love mountain biking however and get out when ever I can Life is all about balance. Take a break. Mix things up.
That’ll happen for sure, my solution has always been to ride different trails and style and try new stuff, as well as mix it up between jumping and XC and DH, keeping it interesting. Also, I don’t ride much during the winter, just snowboard and play in the snow, so I come back super excited for bikes in the spring! Looking forward to riding with you this year hopefully! 👊
I appreciate this take a lot, I always like to look forward to a sport; whether it's snowboarding in the winter, biking in the summer or triathlon training in the transitions. Thanks Eric, good to hear it coming from a pro, keep making great content!
Sounds like some depression. Go and talk to someone you trust . My best friend had life long depression and he committed suicide in January . I know it’s hard for people to deal with and admit they are depressed but don’t let yourself go down that rabbit hole of hell . All the best to you .
Came into the comments to say something similar. Could be job related stress, but it sounds a bit like depression. Would definitely be worth having a conversation with a doctor, mental health is no joke
I agree so much. I heard “I hate something I love”, coupled with what seems to be a vague feeling that something is wrong, while minimizing it, then add that “I think I’m hard to work with…” blaming himself for it. I think it’s important for people to realize that depression doesn’t look like one thing. Sometimes it’s can’t get out of bed and sometimes it’s not enjoying things. Sometimes it’s moments of a lot of fun mixed in with, I’m a burden on my friends and family. We’re living through weird times. Check on your friends.
"I don't wanna cal it burnout" then proceeds to describe classic symptoms of burnout 😂 in all honesty tho, care for yourself man. I understand you have some responsibilities as a sponsored rider, but your personal health should still be the priority.
Hi Paul, the struggle is real. Not just for a Mtb RUclips er, I’m 59 now and sitting here with a separated shoulder. I crashed not in some big mega send it moment but just a silly stupid thing. I remember when I got tired and deeply depressed after 18 years of racing Mx. I just quit and walked away. The joy was gone, I got into Mtb riding and road biking for health reasons and I’m always asking my friends “don’t you guys ever just go for a ride and enjoy the scenery and the pleasure of being outside “ seems the response is always the same the just want to hammer away at the trails. I’ve never been interested in xc riding before but 4 years ago I went to visit family in colorado and I started checking out xc rides that would just take me out in the forest for the beauty of of it and I just ride alone and at my own pace and I find I really am loving it. I still go ride with friends but I’m the slowest in the group and I really hate being hurt. Oh, my only local trails are only 6 miles of swamp and I usually don’t ride Mtb unless it’s cool as I hate summer, sucks living in the southern USA, I really enjoy your videos that teach other riders, it’s great to give back to the community and I think it’s a great way to bring your joy back
Agree with everything you said. I'm 65, been riding off road for 30 years or so, and I've just always liked to go out and ride through the woods, at my own pace. For me, it's not about speed, it's about riding through the woods and getting some quiet time. (I absolutely hate i9 and King hubs, way tooo loud, sometimes I come upon people with these hubs and I can't wait to get away from them). Anyway, I also do road riding (weekends only these days as I am afraid of the way people are driving cars these days) but bike riding is just one thing I do. Windsurfing and sailing are my two biggest hobbies during the warmer months and I love skiing in the colder months. Anyway, a perfect day for me in warmer weather is a bike ride through the woods in the morning followed by windsurfing in the afternoon. Been getting into stupid situations lately like falling over on my mtb at very slow speed and getting a huge laceration on my ankle area which kept me doing fun things for like 3 weeks. Maybe it's age, I don't know, I hope not. Have fun out there!!!
A friend of mine asked me why I don’t want to compete in local events or whatever, my response I don’t have anything left to prove my ego died a long time ago
@@asquare9316 100% agree. I'm still to get back into the mtb and road club rides i did weekly before Covid. I will start again of course as cycling in whichever discipline for me will be for life. When you have a break from anything though the weeks slip by and its hard to start up again. I also agree its good to have complimentary hobbies and interests to keep things fresh and for cross fitness. I love swimming, love/hate running and want to take up paddleboarding and hiking on occassion.
Very honest vid, I think we've all felt like this at some point. I reckon you need a break from RUclips, get out there and try enjoying some bike time without a camera.
As someone who's dealt with depression, this sounds like depression. Changing to new activities is a good healthy thing to do. Also be sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and connect with some people who love you. Respect, brother. : )
I like to jump on the road bike whenever I'm bored of mountain biking... and vice versa. I know lots of mtbers look down at road but it's actually pretty fun and provides a whole new avenue of riding to explore
This, I brought a single speed. Have done many miles on it when I need a break from the trails. Feels like I'm exploring my area like never before on it.
Same here. What I enjoy about road riding is simply rolling out my front door and not really having any plan on how long/far I'll ride and when I'll get home. Sometimes, it's 40 miles. Sometimes 100 miles. While I generally enjoy mtn biking as a social activity with friends, on the road I prefer just me and my thoughts. Fortunately, I have many miles of semi-rural rolling roads in SE PA and NJ to ride on where car traffic is tolerable.
@@ianfurqueron5850 Exactly, I open my garage and boom I'm on my way. At the time I brought the bike I also had a lot of problems with my mtb, parts failing ect. It was so nice riding something so simple.
Same here. Plus, it's easy to get an intense workout very quickly on the road if that's what you want to do. Other evenings I'm scooting around the local park on my hybrid just enjoying the fresh air and waning sunshine.
For me, mountain biking is the one sport that is really hard to love when your fitness level isn't where you want it to be. Even more so then snowboarding. The beginning of the season is always hardest for me because of it. But once you start getting that stamina and strength back there's nothing else like it. Thanks for the video Paul!
Yep. My son is now fitter, more able and more confident than me and thats awesome...but also, when we ride trails together, makes me feel I need to work harder to feel the enjoyment in terms of the trail. Still love the time together though and don't want to lose that, ever.
I don't know how people can do that one thing 24/7, never made sense to me.....take a break from it for a bit dude, the love will come back, that goes for marriage, work, and everything else!
As a 9 to 5er in a corporate type job... This actually makes me feel a little better. I feel this way often even though I know I'm super lucky to have my job and dream about just doing something mountain biking related for work. At the end of the day though, a job is a job and eventually it will cause some burnout or lose some luster.
Having a channel is no different than any job after a while. You get all the stress and anxiety, but only a fraction of the pay. Burnout is just as common as it is in any "regular" job.
I think being with a group of friends and getting out to trails together - and going out for a beer or food after, and just talking to other people about how we're REALLY doing - and encouraging each other - that can help bring the joy back to riding.
If you can only have fun at Whistler and not in your driveway on a bike then it says something about you as a rider. Give me a curb and I'm a little kid again...be appreciative that you can even ride at all.
I wish I could step away from my job when I’m feeling burnt out. That wasn’t meant to be a diss btw. Consider yourself in a very blessed spot that you are able to do that.
I’ve been in the same funk for over a year. Covid has changed everything. I love the quiet enjoyment of the woods and now there are way too many people out there. Can’t even park my car close half the time. Trails in my area a really getting dumbed down too. Maybe I’ll snap out of it.
Hi Swindon, yeh I spent some years there. Was obsessed with climbing when we moved to Squamish many years ago but fell out of love with it I guess like you are now with the MTB. I started kayaking and riding and gradually climbing took a back seat. In a climbing town there's so much pressure to push the grades same with the biking, so many new riders who can't wait to get that Double Black Diamond or Strava times. I guess as a Utuber you're only as good as your last video which may affect your enjoyment of getting out and just riding? Leave the go pro at home for a while? At 71 my days of riding are disappearing, life is short it creeps up on you all too quickly, enjoy it while you can. The new Pseudo is fabulous, so good I did it twice.
Watched this after you quit. I wonder if you quit with the filming bit, dropped the celebs, and just rode with regular people on trails YOU find enjoyable, if you’d still enjoy it....
this, where I live people ride mountainbikes on the road and there is no trail crew... past few months ive been digging myself a trail which has brought me back
I feel you on no trails! During more strict COVID times I’d taken to making my own “trail”… rocks 🪨 at the school outdoor class or blocking cars from gravel trails became features to climb over, playground edges and curbs are skinnies, when the river dries up enough it’s a rock garden - or even worse, when it’s not dry an underwater rock garden. Even a dried up drainage ditch is my half pipe… then if you have a “Your Speed” sign, that’s really a top speed run (51kph is my max on my MTB!). It’s something at least when I can’t get to actual trails. Good luck 🤘
@@rossgirven5163 that is fast! What bike? On my Trek Fuel EX 8 29er I can’t seem to spin my legs much faster - maybe a few more kph like 55 with no headwind (strong the day I tested)… but the bigger problem I have is gearing - I can’t pedal any faster! Maybe I need a huuuge hill 👹
ha we took a 'gap year' from MTB from 2004-2015, after riding and racing from 1986-2003. Rode a lot from 2015 until last year. Now I am just fed up with the trails here in Coastal BC. They're just too janky for a 50 something MTBer imho. Only suited to the kids and daredevils. Suffered a couple whallops to the head, another friend broke his neck recently and a third actually died on the trail! However we have a home in Tucson and the riding there is so so much better, with a much wider assortment from XC to double diamond DH. Love getting down there to ride for 2 weeks at a time. Golf - I did that mostly in the 1990s and a bit during the 'gap years.' Now I ride the road bikes mostly, a lot of hiking, and some RC flying and RC crawlers. BC is over rated, mostly. It's an extremely narrow focus on extreme riding here.
Just being able to ride uphill without being totally gassed for the descent is amazing. I was hesitant to take the hit on my bank account but my god does it pay off..
Novelty is a great way to increase seratonin. try adding trail running and gym workouts to your schedule and learn a new sport. when you have less time to ride your bike, you will enjoy more the opportunity you have to ride your bike.
HERE IS SOME TOUGH LOVE. Its been a while. We have missed your complaining while Living in the "Meca" of mountain biking. Take a break every one needs a vacation from work even if your work is mtb. Get an E bike so it will not be so hard on the climbs. It is still your job and you have to put out content but you dont have to suffer. Get back into shape slowly.
100% after being on and off with MTB for a while i bought an emtb. Sure it was expensive, but I know for a fact I will ride 100% more, longer and harder. Worth the investment for my mental health!
As a small channel myself I have given it my all tried everything and feel burnt out from trying and lack of success its heartbreaking. I can't imagine how much pressure large channels like you feel. Keep your chin up and your tires muddy Paul.
Stop… right here stop recording for a week.. go out on the bike. An go out with out strava.. with out technology… this is what the issue is.. you’ve got so entranced with having no fun.. get entranced with just having fun on your bike.
i've been out of biking for years due to my health, i had cancer and lost a lung, i spent 10 years feeling sorry for myself and putting weight on, i've recently been trying to get back into it and im hating it, i cant ride like i used to and never will be any where near the level i used to be but im sticking with it.
This happens to me. I’ll be on a lock where I’ll go all the time and then a couple months later my bike won’t be touched for weeks or even months. So What did I do to combat this? I bought an ebike!
ohhhh these days.....everyone is a pro rider filming,uploading ,get paid. I dont have a camera ,idon take photos, i dont post on intagram when i go for a ride. i just enjoy beeing at the mountain. when suddenly everything becomes a job routine or a borrowed lifestyle then you dont actually want to do it anymore. say no to cameras or insta or strava ...just enjoy riding
can totally relate was a mountain biker through and through till last year. now on the road bike most of the time the trails where I live is just now full of walkers who either have no awareness so will just step out or people who think they have a right to tell you where you can pr can ride. on a camera note, I've got an insta go 2 recently and am loving it. it's way smaller than the gopros and seems to have pretty good stabilization.
You have to have more interest I like to golf I just started mountain biking four months ago I love it but I exercise every day I run I do MMA I do a lot of things not just one thing
I think when the stoke and drive disappears, you gotta put energy into something else. Like some trail maintenance or building, or even just dedicating a weeks worth of riding to working on basic skills. But also when you are riding It doesn't always have to be the perfect ride or perfect video. Just appreciate having the opportunity to be out in the trees on a bike. And smile and greet everyone you come across. That makes my rides better 😂. Also I guess not every ride you do should be seen as a RUclips opportunity and a way of making money. Ride the bike because it's fun and let the videos take a back seat. I'm the kind of person who will happily watch 10 minutes of dodge gopro footage where you just ride. Don't need to talk don't need a story just ride and show the trail off. 🤷
is it weird that I literally love riding the same trails over and over again for literal years? I feel like I can find a new way to ride them every time and the other trails in my areas are just built bad, and one group of local trail are built amazing and our never leaf blown so they are always loamy.
I’ve had to save this video because Paul I went through the exact exact same struggle where golf became my first option to go and do and cycling was second and I’m over that stage now and realised that’s cycling is a lot better and you will probably get to a stage where you actually get sick of golf 😂 and then you’ll get on your bike and you won’t be able to get off it.I hope this will give you some motivation but if it doesn’t I atleast tried🤞🏼 keep up the great vids🔥
Just my two pence worth but I don't think you hate mountain biking. What seems to be getting you down is... 1) lockdown - which does suck loud but we know it's necessary and temporary, and creating content. 2) your job - I think youtube needs to have it's Uber (UK) moment. It's using people. It assigns scores based on how often you produce, the ratings you get, advertising associated etc etc and that score determines how much you get back. Also, the more you do the more exposed you are to nutters and haters. It's pretty toxic. They need to accept their part and safeguard those that have busy channels. You are making them profit so essentially you are working for them. But they won't admit that. 3) you don't mention it bht the MTB industry is also pretth sheeeeet right now. We are at a moment when finally mkre and more peolle know we all need to get fitter, need to use green transport etc as our current ways are unsustainable - what do the bike industry do? Invent new standards every day making parts, tools or entire bikes obselete to milk us for money. It's putting lots of people off. Deep down you maybe feel some guilt as you maybe feel you are part of that? There is no clear right or wrong here as we are all able tk make our own decisions but I know I feel worse about cycling nkw than I have my entire life as it feels like the fashion industry has been used as a business model and it's killing us - I want no part of that. Keep the mountain biking, keep seeing friends and don't beat yourself up. Life isn't perfect. Look for tne good and try and do at least one good thing a day. Remember it's important to have fun and jt's OK not to be OK. You did good sharing. Sharing and talking leads to positive outcomes.
When we are dancing we are not aiming to arrive a particular location, when we dance the journey itself is the point.. What I'm trying to say is.. when you do something for future reward, (such as creating content for your job), then you may find yourself loosing the passion of doing the activity in the process. So you must find a way to make the process part of the dance, be in the moment and enjoy the ride.
Going to the same restaurant and eating the same thing. You aren't the first to talk about it. Singletrack Sampler has stepped away. BCpov went from weekly to bi-weekly. I can't see how the push to pump out vids weekly can't have some effect on the stoke after a while. Great call with getting some golf in for balance. Sometimes you need some North Shore jank to appreciate the Squamish smooth coasters. I'm heading into surgery next week and my dream for recovery is to hit Corkscrew & Pingu again! (that part of the vid was great btw!)
I am 61 and have been riding trails for 40 years. I too am starting to lose my interest in cycling due to trail politics. There is a guy at work who has been asking me to go golfing and I am starting to feel the excitement in doing this. Who knows where it will end. Winter is coming so maybe just not cycling for awhile may energize for spring
I've been here before. Having a single point of focus was the reason. This is why I now have multiple hobbies (ie passions). I love MTB'ing but I am also a car enthusiast...but I'm also into home theater/music and street photography lol. None of these do I view better than the other, and none of them do I feel need to be "beat". It's great for the mentals!
Paul I’m sorry to hear you have lost the passion I can relate to this and the way I have found a way back. The answer is E mountain bikes I now ride a Canyon spectral ON and the passion and accessibility to trails and exploration has opened up a new world of mountain biking
I get this way every year for about a month and a half. It usually happens in August for me - but this year it happened May, right at the start of the season. I echo the sentiment that it's very confusing - but usually it's because I'm overwhelmed.
Great video, my friend! Lovely mountain biking! Extreme adventure, though isn't it? 😉 The nature Is amazing, too.. What area is that? Enjoyed watching a lot! Cheers from Russia, Paul , and how about visiting my channel as well? I've got something to share about , camping, survival in the wild and other! Anyway, best wishes in all your plans and beginnings! Regards, Yuriy!
I know the feeling bud. These things happen. Sometimes you just need a break. Also, riding with out the camera can help. So you are enjoying the ride and not thinking about your video. At the end of the day doing MTB YT turns something fun, into a job. It’s hard to balance that at times. I understand that you are saying it’s not burnout, however, it could be. Your face definitely lit up when talking about Golf. Seems like you have a new passion. Run with it. I’m sure the bikes will be there when you are ready.
Leave your camera gear at home and go out and ride just to ride. Making vids is a lot of work. Once you start associating riding with the stress and anxiety that comes with making videos, you won't enjoy riding as much. I'm a tiny channel, and even I feel the pressure when I'm riding with the camera rolling. I'm no longer just enjoying the moment. Instead, I'm thinking about how something I do or say is gonna look in a future vid. It sorta ruins the experience. Sometimes it's nice to take a break from it all and enjoy the blissful freedom of just riding your bike without turning it into work.
Hey Paul, everyone get to this point at some time. In a number of endeavors. I have never ridden as little as I have this year out of the past 10. Both Road and MTB. Mainly work, remodeling (or necessary updating) rooms in the house that I have put off for those 10 years, and the adoption of a 5 year old German Shepherd replacing my 14 year old who has passed, taking all my time and energy. 2020, COVID and, so far 2021 have not been conducive to putting in the necessary time. I WILL get back at it. Meanwhile . . . . . . . I support your channel, Kyle and April's and Brian's BKXC. I at least get to ride with you guys (totally getting out of shape and losing all bike skills in the process). There are a lot of friends out there that can help. You have to look at the impact you have on regular working Joes. Stay strong. Just remember to do what you need to stay interested. First weekend in August is the Maah Daah Hey 100 in North Dakota. www.bikesignup.com/Race/ND/Medora/MAAHDAAHHEY100 I will be at one of the wilderness rest stops working it with my daughter and her husband. It's a bucket list thing. Can't ride it this year, but can work it. Another way to keep the stoke!
Paul, you sound like Connor McGregor trying to trash talk after getting rich 😅 The viral situation has affected everyone across the world in different ways and it has obviously disrupted your typical routines and trips etc. Time to reset bro! Don't force it, don't "try" too hard, just go out now and again (if you feel motivated) and eventually something will click back into place - relax! Life evolves, go with the flow. Don't be afraid to abandon it and say I'm done - no harm in coming back later when it feels right! Good job on making this video though.
I’ve been having the same thing! I haven’t been interested in riding or anything really for the last month or so, the thing that has helped me to start loving riding was getting out with the right people and progressing and doing the things that scare me.
This is probably the hardest video for someone in your position to make. Kudos to you for facing the beast head on, with honesty and humility. A lot of people can learn from this, not just RUclipsrs. You should be proud of what you've accomplished so far, and proud of yourself for making this video and bring honest. In the end, you have to be happy. We all hope you find your passion again, but if you don't, make sure you do something that makes you happy. Cheers!
I may just be misunderstanding you, but burn-out is more about that emotional lack of interest you mentioned than it is to do with exhaustion. It's when you can't motivate yourself to do it anymore, you're emotionally resigned sometimes even recoiled from the thing you used to love. When I burned out on programming, I just couldn't stomach the idea of sitting at a computer anymore, even though it had been my passion for years. I changed to part time, I took a 3 month hiatus, and eventually my bank account forced me to slink back to it. But the spark was gone, and it took years to get the spark back again. That's what burnout feels like and I think that's potentially what you're experiencing. You're in a very different position to most mountain bikers in that it's your hobby and your job, and that's a recipe for burnout.
Swings and roundabouts Paul. Don't fight it. It will come back. Sounds like you have reached a level you are happy with. Without progression - you've lost your way. Golf is providing your progression fix and MtB love will come back when ready. But I hear your dilema... I aint watching golf videos.
I’ve only been mtb for two weeks and I’m fucking pissed and hate it already myself. Brand new $6000 bike making tons of noises like a fucking bomb exploding costing me $1000 in tools and parts and I still have a clicking drivetrain I haven’t figured out yet. Wtfffff
Hey Paul I live in Squamish as well and have been watching your videos for awhile ! Your take on Pseudo Tsuga is dead on ! It’s absolutely amazing now and more trails need to be built in this style. I’m getting a 2021 Commencal at the end of July and have only been riding for 1 year. If you’re interested, maybe you can teach me a few things for a future video. I have my own RUclips channel as well and upload most of my days out. Let me know if you want to link up for a ride one day. Keep your spirits high and I’m glad to hear you got the stoke back !
I don’t think you understand how us USA mtb guys would love to have b/c trails in our backyard!!! So when you’re feeling tired of it, think of us guys that would love to ride in the b/c Forrest!, don’t even mention we’d have to fly/hotel/ to even get to whistler!… come on. P. Punt!
Do not know what you get bored of. There is only one thing to get bored of and I can not see that in your case. In MY case this is the fast loss of green by building up villas, big hotels and other urbastic structures, till my tiny island is full of cement crap. Here the green is numbered. Thre is no escape to paradise. Mountain biking is all about nature. You have plenty so you might not get the point. You start to get the point only while year after year pedaling around you see your local trails, fireroads, trees / green to get constantly lost cause there is another new "business" / villa in the area. And this causes a lot of pain. Business destroy green to make money and poor mountain bikers and hikers have to loose their treasure which is the traditional/green/agricultural way of their souroundings. People have the right to make villas. But it seems this is the ONLY ruight cause on the other hand it seems mountain bikers have no right to keep seeing the green areas exaclty as they were every last / past year. In some 50 years from now, not olny global warming but also we might not have the same island we have now which has completely changed since the boom of tourism. So, thank God you have forests. We have not only lost forests in trade for cement business but also lost "Natura" protected zones traded for "hotel projects". Guess what.... You get bored ONLY when riding a trail and suddenly come up facing a new villa which has destroyed everything you knew till then. This is the boredom. Urbanization. The total enemy of a mountain biker. There is no chance in a million to see a structure go down to put up a forest. This is a way of no return. Enloy nature and mountain bike as long as you live. Cause in some hundred years from now many places will not be suited for Mountain biking any more. And with no nature there will be not suited for humans at all. Thank GOD, second comming / new earth will ahve no cities and no cement at all, as Paradise had no buildings..
Thanks for everyone’s support on my videos, it really means a lot! Jerseys and gloves? Click here 👉 bit.ly/PunterStore
Just remember that we follow your channel for you, Paul the person.
Paul, we love you, we support you, and we hope you can fall in love with mountain biking again. Everyone needs a reset.
Firstly, i recognise it must be difficult for you and it must have been difficult to talk about this so openly. I think your mood may well be dysthymic (I'm a psychiatric nurse) although you don't meet the two-year diagnostic threshold, you're NOT clinically depressed from what I can see. You've taken a fun hobby and made it your job so, of course, it becomes a job.... blurgh. Covid hasn't helped, we're all stuck in the same sort of time bubble with little moving forward, but it'll get better. You may have lost some fitness but as an Englishman living in NSW we often have heatwaves similar to what you're experiencing and I really struggle in the heat and I'm generally a fit mountain biker and road biker.
Take a step back, try some mindfulness or meditation. Think about what you enjoyed about the sport in the beginning and focus on that. Eat healthily, talk to your friends/family, sleep well and if you still feel low maybe see a counselor to just to take stock.
All the best, Daniel.
if you hate mtb can i have ur bike?
@ 16:20 I couldn't find any gloves/jersey deal on the merch page.
Hey Paul, thanks for making this video. It cool to hear your thoughts and I think a lot of people have been struggling over this past year. Mountain biking is such a huge community and exploration based sport and everyone having to be so separate the past year it’s been a different feel for sure. I know for me I can totally relate to the “how many times can I ride the same trail” thing. Especially after being used to traveling and racing 20+ times a year. I can’t wait until we can come up to Canada again and ride some fun stuff with you and if you feel like riding some fast flowy trails come back down to Idaho and visit when you can. Your stoke will come back, sometimes it just takes a little break from things to really appreciate them again! Keep your head up.
Kyle
We’ll ride together if coming down to Sedona fest goes to plan :)
Would love to give you guys a tour of our local trails :)
The gods right here 🤘🤘👑👑
Kyle, I appreciate your positivity man! Not everyone can manage such a positive comment
Hey Kyle, I posted a reply for Paul that I think I sent to yourself & April. Apart from the psychology side biochemistryhas a huge part to do with it. Myokines are a recently found chemical signalling. But instead of me trying to explain it. Dr Doug McGuff is a incredible guy who explains it in this Podcast.
. ruclips.net/video/aie1AgEXikY/видео.html
Sometimes you just gotta go for a cruise with no goal in mind, no agenda, no filming, go get a little lost and explore.
That's also great life advice 👍 Goes for more then mtn biking.
quite true, exploy new trails spur of the moment is one of the best...
I agree totally. but then here in coastal BC there is no such thing as a 'go for a cruise' trail, unlike Arizona. It's mostly an all in commitment to the jank here.
When what you were doing for fun becomes a job, it does change how much joy you get from it sadly...
@@sgazzz IOW: Don't turn your avocation into your vocation.
The struggle is real buddy! Especially when you turn your passions into your job. 🤘
🤌
I honestly think it is a risky path, turning a passion into a job - as it can take away the joy. I MTB to escape, relax, have fun, its an outlet. I can't imagine losing that outlet, by turning it into a job or a living. Kudos to those of you who can make it work, because I love your content!
very true. I had the passion for Linux and IT tech when a teen... now I'm a 10+ years of experience IT dude... I hate computers. But love mountain biking :D
Sportbikes (motorcycles) were my life. I road raced with the AFM for years, went to Motorcycle Mechanics school and became a mechanic. Now 20 years later I never ride motorcycles on the weekends and I quit racing years ago. I absolutely love mountain biking however and get out when ever I can
Life is all about balance. Take a break. Mix things up.
Take a hardtail and the trails will seem like a new beast!
That’ll happen for sure, my solution has always been to ride different trails and style and try new stuff, as well as mix it up between jumping and XC and DH, keeping it interesting. Also, I don’t ride much during the winter, just snowboard and play in the snow, so I come back super excited for bikes in the spring! Looking forward to riding with you this year hopefully! 👊
Rigid Single Speed - a change of bike always helps.
@@martinshortt7750 makes easy trails fun/hard again
I appreciate this take a lot, I always like to look forward to a sport; whether it's snowboarding in the winter, biking in the summer or triathlon training in the transitions. Thanks Eric, good to hear it coming from a pro, keep making great content!
Sounds like some depression. Go and talk to someone you trust . My best friend had life long depression and he committed suicide in January . I know it’s hard for people to deal with and admit they are depressed but don’t let yourself go down that rabbit hole of hell . All the best to you .
Came into the comments to say something similar. Could be job related stress, but it sounds a bit like depression. Would definitely be worth having a conversation with a doctor, mental health is no joke
I agree so much. I heard “I hate something I love”, coupled with what seems to be a vague feeling that something is wrong, while minimizing it, then add that “I think I’m hard to work with…” blaming himself for it. I think it’s important for people to realize that depression doesn’t look like one thing. Sometimes it’s can’t get out of bed and sometimes it’s not enjoying things. Sometimes it’s moments of a lot of fun mixed in with, I’m a burden on my friends and family. We’re living through weird times. Check on your friends.
The good thing is that for most people, depression is like the common cold for mental health; it comes and goes
Rip ur best friend
Agreed this is what I was thinking! Biking is actually what takes away my depression and stress!
Sounds like depression Paul - please don't be afraid to ask for help
@MTB Royale I can’t tell if you are joking
Facts I’m depressed af
@@NickyNicest Hope you can find the energy to get some help
@@NickyNicest How you feeling, stranger? Things get any better?
"I don't wanna cal it burnout" then proceeds to describe classic symptoms of burnout 😂 in all honesty tho, care for yourself man. I understand you have some responsibilities as a sponsored rider, but your personal health should still be the priority.
Hi Paul, the struggle is real. Not just for a Mtb RUclips er, I’m 59 now and sitting here with a separated shoulder. I crashed not in some big mega send it moment but just a silly stupid thing. I remember when I got tired and deeply depressed after 18 years of racing Mx. I just quit and walked away. The joy was gone, I got into Mtb riding and road biking for health reasons and I’m always asking my friends “don’t you guys ever just go for a ride and enjoy the scenery and the pleasure of being outside “ seems the response is always the same the just want to hammer away at the trails. I’ve never been interested in xc riding before but 4 years ago I went to visit family in colorado and I started checking out xc rides that would just take me out in the forest for the beauty of of it and I just ride alone and at my own pace and I find I really am loving it. I still go ride with friends but I’m the slowest in the group and I really hate being hurt. Oh, my only local trails are only 6 miles of swamp and I usually don’t ride Mtb unless it’s cool as I hate summer, sucks living in the southern USA, I really enjoy your videos that teach other riders, it’s great to give back to the community and I think it’s a great way to bring your joy back
exactly my sentiments too! I'm in BC but covet the US XC trails very much. No one wants to build them here, at all.
Agree with everything you said. I'm 65, been riding off road for 30 years or so, and I've just always liked to go out and ride through the woods, at my own pace. For me, it's not about speed, it's about riding through the woods and getting some quiet time. (I absolutely hate i9 and King hubs, way tooo loud, sometimes I come upon people with these hubs and I can't wait to get away from them).
Anyway, I also do road riding (weekends only these days as I am afraid of the way people are driving cars these days) but bike riding is just one thing I do. Windsurfing and sailing are my two biggest hobbies during the warmer months and I love skiing in the colder months.
Anyway, a perfect day for me in warmer weather is a bike ride through the woods in the morning followed by windsurfing in the afternoon.
Been getting into stupid situations lately like falling over on my mtb at very slow speed and getting a huge laceration on my ankle area which kept me doing fun things for like 3 weeks. Maybe it's age, I don't know, I hope not.
Have fun out there!!!
A friend of mine asked me why I don’t want to compete in local events or whatever, my response I don’t have anything left to prove my ego died a long time ago
@@asquare9316 100% agree.
I'm still to get back into the mtb and road club rides i did weekly before Covid.
I will start again of course as cycling in whichever discipline for me will be for life. When you have a break from anything though the weeks slip by and its hard to start up again.
I also agree its good to have complimentary hobbies and interests to keep things fresh and for cross fitness. I love swimming, love/hate running and want to take up paddleboarding and hiking on occassion.
Very honest vid, I think we've all felt like this at some point.
I reckon you need a break from RUclips, get out there and try enjoying some bike time without a camera.
As someone who's dealt with depression, this sounds like depression.
Changing to new activities is a good healthy thing to do. Also be sure to get enough sleep, eat well, and connect with some people who love you.
Respect, brother.
: )
I 100% agree. This definitely sounds like depression. I do the exact same thing on my bad days or weeks sometimes.
The demands of RUclips killed his love for what started as his hobby.
I like to jump on the road bike whenever I'm bored of mountain biking... and vice versa. I know lots of mtbers look down at road but it's actually pretty fun and provides a whole new avenue of riding to explore
I'm the same, good switching it up a bit, hiking is great too. All the best (and fittest) local enduro riders also ride road.
This, I brought a single speed. Have done many miles on it when I need a break from the trails. Feels like I'm exploring my area like never before on it.
Same here. What I enjoy about road riding is simply rolling out my front door and not really having any plan on how long/far I'll ride and when I'll get home. Sometimes, it's 40 miles. Sometimes 100 miles. While I generally enjoy mtn biking as a social activity with friends, on the road I prefer just me and my thoughts. Fortunately, I have many miles of semi-rural rolling roads in SE PA and NJ to ride on where car traffic is tolerable.
@@ianfurqueron5850 Exactly, I open my garage and boom I'm on my way. At the time I brought the bike I also had a lot of problems with my mtb, parts failing ect. It was so nice riding something so simple.
Same here. Plus, it's easy to get an intense workout very quickly on the road if that's what you want to do. Other evenings I'm scooting around the local park on my hybrid just enjoying the fresh air and waning sunshine.
Can relate.
Get yourself a hardtail and you‘ll enjoy mountain biking again.
Shut up hardtail boy
@@rmkennedy4965 🤣
@@rmkennedy4965 hard tails can be goated
Gotta agree with Kennedy. What the dude is going thru HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH the f’ing bike he is riding 😏
@@mrsmartypants_1 true that
For me, mountain biking is the one sport that is really hard to love when your fitness level isn't where you want it to be. Even more so then snowboarding. The beginning of the season is always hardest for me because of it. But once you start getting that stamina and strength back there's nothing else like it. Thanks for the video Paul!
Yep. My son is now fitter, more able and more confident than me and thats awesome...but also, when we ride trails together, makes me feel I need to work harder to feel the enjoyment in terms of the trail. Still love the time together though and don't want to lose that, ever.
All the hassle of travelling and cleaning your bike and way expensive bikes put me off for life
So you're now Paul the Putter?
lmfao
Ask Giant for a Gravel bike, go ride it and don’t film. Just enjoy being on a bike.
No
Sponsors are going to love this video
Exactly my first thought lmao
Didn’t he just get a new sponsor too? This cat is trippin!!
I don't know how people can do that one thing 24/7, never made sense to me.....take a break from it for a bit dude, the love will come back, that goes for marriage, work, and everything else!
So true!
Also, find a fresh sport like skating or surfing
take a break from marriage. wouldn't that be something... bwahaha
@@peter-zs4ml LMAO....I wouldn't know but trust me, I can imagine.......LMAO..
How you take a break from marriage? Lol didn’t even know you could?!
I think you should hire Bobo as a part time trail therapist.
YES
I disagree. No hate. I just don't find him as funny anymore
@@xallyislas3779 Are you an e-biker as well?
Harsh, but I preferred him swearing his way down a trail than the skits. Their funny, but not what got me watching his channel
@@jayesh5131 e-biker? Nope, just regular HT mtb
As a 9 to 5er in a corporate type job... This actually makes me feel a little better. I feel this way often even though I know I'm super lucky to have my job and dream about just doing something mountain biking related for work. At the end of the day though, a job is a job and eventually it will cause some burnout or lose some luster.
Having a channel is no different than any job after a while. You get all the stress and anxiety, but only a fraction of the pay. Burnout is just as common as it is in any "regular" job.
You love it and you know it
I think being with a group of friends and getting out to trails together - and going out for a beer or food after, and just talking to other people about how we're REALLY doing - and encouraging each other - that can help bring the joy back to riding.
Hello Paul, why don’t you try an eMTB again, it might help with the motivation and then then fitness. It’s all i ride. Hope you feel better soon.
That’s what I did after being on and off my bike for so long. Emtb is a totally different level of enjoyment for me.
Have you tried some red meat? In all seriousness, this happens to all of us. Glad to hear you enjoy golf; will check those videos out.
If you can only have fun at Whistler and not in your driveway on a bike then it says something about you as a rider. Give me a curb and I'm a little kid again...be appreciative that you can even ride at all.
I wish I could step away from my job when I’m feeling burnt out. That wasn’t meant to be a diss btw. Consider yourself in a very blessed spot that you are able to do that.
Sweet! One less MTB RUclipsr. More room for my friend and me.
I’ve been in the same funk for over a year. Covid has changed everything. I love the quiet enjoyment of the woods and now there are way too many people out there. Can’t even park my car close half the time. Trails in my area a really getting dumbed down too. Maybe I’ll snap out of it.
I’m glad you did this video …could help a lot of people stuck. ..thanks. ..
Hi Swindon, yeh I spent some years there. Was obsessed with climbing when we moved to Squamish many years ago but fell out of love with it I guess like you are now with the MTB. I started kayaking and riding and gradually climbing took a back seat. In a climbing town there's so much pressure to push the grades same with the biking, so many new riders who can't wait to get that Double Black Diamond or Strava times. I guess as a Utuber you're only as good as your last video which may affect your enjoyment of getting out and just riding? Leave the go pro at home for a while? At 71 my days of riding are disappearing, life is short it creeps up on you all too quickly, enjoy it while you can. The new Pseudo is fabulous, so good I did it twice.
Are you sad cause pinkbike sold out?
Im at the 2 minute point and this is sounding like classical depression to me
You're in a funk, and that's totally cool! Take a little break, relax, wait for the rain, and come back strong! You got this!!
Thanks Jeff!
Watched this after you quit. I wonder if you quit with the filming bit, dropped the celebs, and just rode with regular people on trails YOU find enjoyable, if you’d still enjoy it....
i feel similar but for the reason of having no trails to ride
this, where I live people ride mountainbikes on the road and there is no trail crew... past few months ive been digging myself a trail which has brought me back
I feel you on no trails! During more strict COVID times I’d taken to making my own “trail”… rocks 🪨 at the school outdoor class or blocking cars from gravel trails became features to climb over, playground edges and curbs are skinnies, when the river dries up enough it’s a rock garden - or even worse, when it’s not dry an underwater rock garden. Even a dried up drainage ditch is my half pipe… then if you have a “Your Speed” sign, that’s really a top speed run (51kph is my max on my MTB!). It’s something at least when I can’t get to actual trails. Good luck 🤘
@@BikingwithJP near my house there is a steep hill that at a push I can hit 62kph 😁
Scary fun!
@@rossgirven5163 that is fast! What bike? On my Trek Fuel EX 8 29er I can’t seem to spin my legs much faster - maybe a few more kph like 55 with no headwind (strong the day I tested)… but the bigger problem I have is gearing - I can’t pedal any faster! Maybe I need a huuuge hill 👹
@@BikingwithJP voodoo bizango 29er
It is a bloody steep hill
Paul the Putter channel upcoming?
ha we took a 'gap year' from MTB from 2004-2015, after riding and racing from 1986-2003. Rode a lot from 2015 until last year. Now I am just fed up with the trails here in Coastal BC. They're just too janky for a 50 something MTBer imho. Only suited to the kids and daredevils. Suffered a couple whallops to the head, another friend broke his neck recently and a third actually died on the trail! However we have a home in Tucson and the riding there is so so much better, with a much wider assortment from XC to double diamond DH. Love getting down there to ride for 2 weeks at a time. Golf - I did that mostly in the 1990s and a bit during the 'gap years.' Now I ride the road bikes mostly, a lot of hiking, and some RC flying and RC crawlers. BC is over rated, mostly. It's an extremely narrow focus on extreme riding here.
Get an Ebike.... Nuff said
i've really felt the same recently and so glad someone else has brought this up as to some it is a stupid thought
Maybe time to buy an eMTB?
I’ve struggled with MTB motivation for a long time and getting an eMTB just fired it up massively :)
Just being able to ride uphill without being totally gassed for the descent is amazing. I was hesitant to take the hit on my bank account but my god does it pay off..
Novelty is a great way to increase seratonin. try adding trail running and gym workouts to your schedule and learn a new sport. when you have less time to ride your bike, you will enjoy more the opportunity you have to ride your bike.
Time to get hooked on drugs.
HERE IS SOME TOUGH LOVE. Its been a while. We have missed your complaining while Living in the "Meca" of mountain biking. Take a break every one needs a vacation from work even if your work is mtb. Get an E bike so it will not be so hard on the climbs. It is still your job and you have to put out content but you dont have to suffer. Get back into shape slowly.
It's time for an EMTB and explore more remote places instead of bike parks
EMTB’s take the bad out of MTB. I am tired of listening to the haters.
100% after being on and off with MTB for a while i bought an emtb. Sure it was expensive, but I know for a fact I will ride 100% more, longer and harder. Worth the investment for my mental health!
As a small channel myself I have given it my all tried everything and feel burnt out from trying and lack of success its heartbreaking. I can't imagine how much pressure large channels like you feel. Keep your chin up and your tires muddy Paul.
Stop… right here stop recording for a week.. go out on the bike. An go out with out strava.. with out technology… this is what the issue is.. you’ve got so entranced with having no fun.. get entranced with just having fun on your bike.
I think the sport attracts a lot of bad people, generally speaking. Not exactly sure why, but there is a reason why many people hate bikers.
i've been out of biking for years due to my health, i had cancer and lost a lung, i spent 10 years feeling sorry for myself and putting weight on, i've recently been trying to get back into it and im hating it, i cant ride like i used to and never will be any where near the level i used to be but im sticking with it.
This happens to me. I’ll be on a lock where I’ll go all the time and then a couple months later my bike won’t be touched for weeks or even months. So What did I do to combat this? I bought an ebike!
ohhhh these days.....everyone is a pro rider filming,uploading ,get paid. I dont have a camera ,idon take photos, i dont post on intagram when i go for a ride. i just enjoy beeing at the mountain.
when suddenly everything becomes a job routine or a borrowed lifestyle then you dont actually want to do it anymore. say no to cameras or insta or strava ...just enjoy riding
can totally relate was a mountain biker through and through till last year. now on the road bike most of the time the trails where I live is just now full of walkers who either have no awareness so will just step out or people who think they have a right to tell you where you can pr can ride. on a camera note, I've got an insta go 2 recently and am loving it. it's way smaller than the gopros and seems to have pretty good stabilization.
You have to have more interest I like to golf I just started mountain biking four months ago I love it but I exercise every day I run I do MMA I do a lot of things not just one thing
Or like Sam Pilgrim, just ride a free bike to appreciate your current one
Well if you want to give your bike away I am taking free stuff...LOL
Not much honesty on RUclips, so this is quite refreshing. Thanks.
I think when the stoke and drive disappears, you gotta put energy into something else. Like some trail maintenance or building, or even just dedicating a weeks worth of riding to working on basic skills.
But also when you are riding It doesn't always have to be the perfect ride or perfect video. Just appreciate having the opportunity to be out in the trees on a bike. And smile and greet everyone you come across. That makes my rides better 😂. Also I guess not every ride you do should be seen as a RUclips opportunity and a way of making money. Ride the bike because it's fun and let the videos take a back seat.
I'm the kind of person who will happily watch 10 minutes of dodge gopro footage where you just ride. Don't need to talk don't need a story just ride and show the trail off. 🤷
is it weird that I literally love riding the same trails over and over again for literal years?
I feel like I can find a new way to ride them every time and the other trails in my areas are just built bad, and one group of local trail are built amazing and our never leaf blown so they are always loamy.
I’ve had to save this video because Paul I went through the exact exact same struggle where golf became my first option to go and do and cycling was second and I’m over that stage now and realised that’s cycling is a lot better and you will probably get to a stage where you actually get sick of golf 😂 and then you’ll get on your bike and you won’t be able to get off it.I hope this will give you some motivation but if it doesn’t I atleast tried🤞🏼 keep up the great vids🔥
Just my two pence worth but I don't think you hate mountain biking.
What seems to be getting you down is...
1) lockdown - which does suck loud but we know it's necessary and temporary, and creating content.
2) your job - I think youtube needs to have it's Uber (UK) moment. It's using people. It assigns scores based on how often you produce, the ratings you get, advertising associated etc etc and that score determines how much you get back. Also, the more you do the more exposed you are to nutters and haters. It's pretty toxic. They need to accept their part and safeguard those that have busy channels. You are making them profit so essentially you are working for them. But they won't admit that.
3) you don't mention it bht the MTB industry is also pretth sheeeeet right now. We are at a moment when finally mkre and more peolle know we all need to get fitter, need to use green transport etc as our current ways are unsustainable - what do the bike industry do? Invent new standards every day making parts, tools or entire bikes obselete to milk us for money. It's putting lots of people off. Deep down you maybe feel some guilt as you maybe feel you are part of that? There is no clear right or wrong here as we are all able tk make our own decisions but I know I feel worse about cycling nkw than I have my entire life as it feels like the fashion industry has been used as a business model and it's killing us - I want no part of that.
Keep the mountain biking, keep seeing friends and don't beat yourself up. Life isn't perfect. Look for tne good and try and do at least one good thing a day. Remember it's important to have fun and jt's OK not to be OK.
You did good sharing. Sharing and talking leads to positive outcomes.
Top post there
When we are dancing we are not aiming to arrive a particular location, when we dance the journey itself is the point..
What I'm trying to say is.. when you do something for future reward, (such as creating content for your job), then you may find yourself loosing the passion of doing the activity in the process. So you must find a way to make the process part of the dance, be in the moment and enjoy the ride.
Going to the same restaurant and eating the same thing. You aren't the first to talk about it. Singletrack Sampler has stepped away. BCpov went from weekly to bi-weekly. I can't see how the push to pump out vids weekly can't have some effect on the stoke after a while. Great call with getting some golf in for balance.
Sometimes you need some North Shore jank to appreciate the Squamish smooth coasters. I'm heading into surgery next week and my dream for recovery is to hit Corkscrew & Pingu again! (that part of the vid was great btw!)
I am 61 and have been riding trails for 40 years. I too am starting to lose my interest in cycling due to trail politics. There is a guy at work who has been asking me to go golfing and I am starting to feel the excitement in doing this. Who knows where it will end. Winter is coming so maybe just not cycling for awhile may energize for spring
What do you mean about the politics? I say this as a road bike rider. Thanks in advance.
That happening is basically my worst nightmare. I’ve invested all my time and money into this activity. Luckily it hasn’t happened :)
Yes its fun buying new stuff for mtb, I treat it as an engineering experience
I've been here before. Having a single point of focus was the reason. This is why I now have multiple hobbies (ie passions). I love MTB'ing but I am also a car enthusiast...but I'm also into home theater/music and street photography lol. None of these do I view better than the other, and none of them do I feel need to be "beat". It's great for the mentals!
Thank YOU for your honesty and sharing what we ALL are feeling (2020-2021)…. 🇺🇸
Love the honesty. I haven't been on my bike since last September. I feel your struggle.
It's not "MTBing" you hate.
You need to hook up with bobo. He will lift your spirits. Lol. N.C. mountains.
Nothing I want more than to go make videos with him and sheyn
You should try bmx biking.
Look up Joy of Bike channel
He is going to be a roadie on the next video
The last 16 months have been challenging for everyone's mental health. It's worth having a chat with a professional.
Paul I’m sorry to hear you have lost the passion I can relate to this and the way I have found a way back.
The answer is E mountain bikes I now ride a Canyon spectral ON and the passion and accessibility to trails and exploration has opened up a new world of mountain biking
Sounds like depression man.
I get this way every year for about a month and a half. It usually happens in August for me - but this year it happened May, right at the start of the season. I echo the sentiment that it's very confusing - but usually it's because I'm overwhelmed.
It's been a long run, but you are the one that made me start MTB, so what I really want to say is thank you.
6:25 the berms are amazing! 🤘
Such an honest video! Esp about the GoPro - I went with the Hero 8 sans horizon levelling for this exact reason!
Great video, my friend! Lovely mountain biking! Extreme adventure, though isn't it? 😉 The nature Is amazing, too.. What area is that? Enjoyed watching a lot! Cheers from Russia, Paul , and how about visiting my channel as well? I've got something to share about , camping, survival in the wild and other! Anyway, best wishes in all your plans and beginnings! Regards, Yuriy!
If you need a drive to get better, race a ton
this sounds like depression
The answer is EBIKE!!!!!!!
I feel like that a lot.
Time to get a gravel bike..
I know the feeling bud. These things happen. Sometimes you just need a break. Also, riding with out the camera can help. So you are enjoying the ride and not thinking about your video. At the end of the day doing MTB YT turns something fun, into a job. It’s hard to balance that at times. I understand that you are saying it’s not burnout, however, it could be. Your face definitely lit up when talking about Golf. Seems like you have a new passion. Run with it. I’m sure the bikes will be there when you are ready.
Paul just go to Whistler
Leave your camera gear at home and go out and ride just to ride. Making vids is a lot of work. Once you start associating riding with the stress and anxiety that comes with making videos, you won't enjoy riding as much. I'm a tiny channel, and even I feel the pressure when I'm riding with the camera rolling. I'm no longer just enjoying the moment. Instead, I'm thinking about how something I do or say is gonna look in a future vid. It sorta ruins the experience. Sometimes it's nice to take a break from it all and enjoy the blissful freedom of just riding your bike without turning it into work.
Hey Paul, everyone get to this point at some time. In a number of endeavors. I have never ridden as little as I have this year out of the past 10. Both Road and MTB. Mainly work, remodeling (or necessary updating) rooms in the house that I have put off for those 10 years, and the adoption of a 5 year old German Shepherd replacing my 14 year old who has passed, taking all my time and energy. 2020, COVID and, so far 2021 have not been conducive to putting in the necessary time. I WILL get back at it. Meanwhile . . . .
. . . I support your channel, Kyle and April's and Brian's BKXC. I at least get to ride with you guys (totally getting out of shape and losing all bike skills in the process). There are a lot of friends out there that can help. You have to look at the impact you have on regular working Joes. Stay strong. Just remember to do what you need to stay interested.
First weekend in August is the Maah Daah Hey 100 in North Dakota. www.bikesignup.com/Race/ND/Medora/MAAHDAAHHEY100
I will be at one of the wilderness rest stops working it with my daughter and her husband. It's a bucket list thing. Can't ride it this year, but can work it. Another way to keep the stoke!
Try road biking
Paul, you sound like Connor McGregor trying to trash talk after getting rich 😅 The viral situation has affected everyone across the world in different ways and it has obviously disrupted your typical routines and trips etc. Time to reset bro! Don't force it, don't "try" too hard, just go out now and again (if you feel motivated) and eventually something will click back into place - relax! Life evolves, go with the flow. Don't be afraid to abandon it and say I'm done - no harm in coming back later when it feels right! Good job on making this video though.
I’ve been having the same thing! I haven’t been interested in riding or anything really for the last month or so, the thing that has helped me to start loving riding was getting out with the right people and progressing and doing the things that scare me.
This is probably the hardest video for someone in your position to make. Kudos to you for facing the beast head on, with honesty and humility. A lot of people can learn from this, not just RUclipsrs.
You should be proud of what you've accomplished so far, and proud of yourself for making this video and bring honest. In the end, you have to be happy. We all hope you find your passion again, but if you don't, make sure you do something that makes you happy.
Cheers!
Looks like we've been going through similar vibes my friend. I'm starting to see the light lately though. Cheers for the honesty.
💪
I may just be misunderstanding you, but burn-out is more about that emotional lack of interest you mentioned than it is to do with exhaustion. It's when you can't motivate yourself to do it anymore, you're emotionally resigned sometimes even recoiled from the thing you used to love. When I burned out on programming, I just couldn't stomach the idea of sitting at a computer anymore, even though it had been my passion for years. I changed to part time, I took a 3 month hiatus, and eventually my bank account forced me to slink back to it. But the spark was gone, and it took years to get the spark back again. That's what burnout feels like and I think that's potentially what you're experiencing. You're in a very different position to most mountain bikers in that it's your hobby and your job, and that's a recipe for burnout.
I get it. Over the years in my life... I've worked in my "Hobby" field. AND... in every single case... you don't want to do your hobby.
Swings and roundabouts Paul. Don't fight it. It will come back.
Sounds like you have reached a level you are happy with. Without progression - you've lost your way. Golf is providing your progression fix and MtB love will come back when ready. But I hear your dilema... I aint watching golf videos.
I’ve only been mtb for two weeks and I’m fucking pissed and hate it already myself. Brand new $6000 bike making tons of noises like a fucking bomb exploding costing me $1000 in tools and parts and I still have a clicking drivetrain I haven’t figured out yet. Wtfffff
Hey Paul I live in Squamish as well and have been watching your videos for awhile ! Your take on Pseudo Tsuga is dead on ! It’s absolutely amazing now and more trails need to be built in this style. I’m getting a 2021 Commencal at the end of July and have only been riding for 1 year. If you’re interested, maybe you can teach me a few things for a future video. I have my own RUclips channel as well and upload most of my days out. Let me know if you want to link up for a ride one day. Keep your spirits high and I’m glad to hear you got the stoke back !
I don’t think you understand how us USA mtb guys would love to have b/c trails in our backyard!!! So when you’re feeling tired of it, think of us guys that would love to ride in the b/c Forrest!, don’t even mention we’d have to fly/hotel/ to even get to whistler!… come on. P. Punt!
Do not know what you get bored of. There is only one thing to get bored of and I can not see that in your case. In MY case this is the fast loss of green by building up villas, big hotels and other urbastic structures, till my tiny island is full of cement crap. Here the green is numbered. Thre is no escape to paradise.
Mountain biking is all about nature. You have plenty so you might not get the point. You start to get the point only while year after year pedaling around you see your local trails, fireroads, trees / green to get constantly lost cause there is another new "business" / villa in the area. And this causes a lot of pain. Business destroy green to make money and poor mountain bikers and hikers have to loose their treasure which is the traditional/green/agricultural way of their souroundings. People have the right to make villas. But it seems this is the ONLY ruight cause on the other hand it seems mountain bikers have no right to keep seeing the green areas exaclty as they were every last / past year.
In some 50 years from now, not olny global warming but also we might not have the same island we have now which has completely changed since the boom of tourism.
So, thank God you have forests. We have not only lost forests in trade for cement business but also lost "Natura" protected zones traded for "hotel projects".
Guess what....
You get bored ONLY when riding a trail and suddenly come up facing a new villa which has destroyed everything you knew till then.
This is the boredom. Urbanization. The total enemy of a mountain biker.
There is no chance in a million to see a structure go down to put up a forest.
This is a way of no return.
Enloy nature and mountain bike as long as you live.
Cause in some hundred years from now many places will not be suited for Mountain biking any more. And with no nature there will be not suited for humans at all.
Thank GOD, second comming / new earth will ahve no cities and no cement at all, as Paradise had no buildings..
Stop trying to make films, and just ride and record.
F the production!
I feel you've lost the feeling of... Just enjoying the ride.