Buy a map. Learn how to use it. Ask questions. Pick your head up and look away from the little screen.
Now, now, now, Laura. That would be asking way too stinking much.
I take noobs out every winter, get them up the trail a bit and ask but one question. Show me where you are on your map? Some have a map and compass, some have a GPS but almost all can't find their rear end, let alone their position on a map.
Like taking Diamox without finding out if they have a problem with elevation and renting crampons and ice axe to go up the chute without skills, people want an easy way to the top.
Easy is great, I like easy, the course of least resistance and all that but when white out comes rolling in or my trekking poles start singing...it's nice knowing what to do without consulting my iPhone 5.
