What Do Conquering the Mountain and Leadership Have in Common?
About a year ago, I wrote a LinkedIn post on breaking my knee skiing and what it had in common with leadership. I thought it was only fitting to also write about a related, but different experience. Just over a year after that incident, I conquered the mountain on the exact ski run where I broke my knee!
Preparing for this day began 14 months earlier. I have gone through surgery, physical therapy, and strengthening exercises. I’ve had to rebuild my confidence and learn a lot along the way.
When I began the run, my legs and hands were shaking. Could I really do it? After several minutes, the shaking turned to tears until I heard these important words from my husband – “You can do this!”
My fear turned to resolve as I continued down the mountain at my methodical pace.
By the time I reached the bottom, I felt an extreme sense of accomplishment. My fear turned to laughter and a victory pose.
As leaders, we often have what seems like insurmountable tasks and maybe ones that we have failed at before. But here are 3 things to keep in mind when conquering your own mountain.
If you fail at something, take the time to learn and rebuild.
Don’t be afraid to try again.
Don’t do it alone. Find an advocate who will cheer you on!