Dudetributes: A Sense of Adventure

I have decided to apply my immense knowledge of guys and dudes in a more nurturing manner by advocating certain attributes of dudes. It should be noted by all would-be dudes that these "dude-tributes" are not requirements for dudedom. Rather, they should be seen as characteristics that dudes often exhibit. When a plethora of dudetributes are found in one individual, there is a high probability he is a dude. (Those still uncertain of what a "dude" should revisit "An Introduction to Dudedom"). Dudetributes should be thought of like childhood collectibles (pogs, baseball cards, whatever) - the more of them you have the better off you are. Likewise, the more dudetributes you possess or develop, the more dudelike you become.

One of the most complex and misunderstood dudetributes is that of a sense of adventure. Dudes are generally curious and enjoy learning new things, and it follows that they will therefore seek activities that are new, different, challenging, and unique. A sense of adventure should not be mistaken for lack of commitment - dudes are always dedicated to their commitments. But they also are not intimidated by new and challenging situations. Adventurousness is also NOT reckless - it is reasoned and calculated. In order to clarify the concept, I have boiled "Dudely sense of adventure" down into three components: risk (or at least uncertainty) challenge, and individuality.

A Dude-like Sense of Adventure

Risk

Men are fascinated by the idea of risk. This explains why many men struggle with gambling. It also can explain why men will take apart a machine in an attempt to fix it, or refuse to ask for directions - the risk of reassembly and getting lost is overly enticing. Although this obsession with risk can be misapplied, it can also have positive uses. Investing a large sum of money to start a small business venture, moving to New York City to start an acting career, and even moving to a new town all involve uncertainty and risk. Without the ability to cope, or even thrive upon risk, Columbus and Magellan never would have made their discoveries, and open heart surgery would never be successful. The key is to harness the male fascination with risk into positive activities.

Challenge

Difficulty is inherent in the idea of adventure. It is not adventurous to walk to the top of a hill because there it is a very small challenge. Climbing a mountain however, is extremely adventurous because of the high degree of difficulty. Men also love to be challenged. Take for example, a group of teenage boys sitting around a fire. It is inevitable that they will begin to dare one another to attempt things like picking up coals and jumping over flaming logs. Dudes realize their need to be challenged and seek outlets that will be difficult for themselves.

Individuality

Being adventurous involves the confidence and personal strength to complete an activity regardless of the opposition. Adventuresome dudes look peer pressure square in the eye, scoff, and continue with their plans. I am not advocating participation in activities simply because no one else is involved, but I am contending that adventure often spits in the face of popular opinion. As Benjamin Franklin should have said, "Being yourself is the greatest adventure of all."

Feel free to respond with true tales of dudely adventure.

Dude out,

-C.R.