13 Leadership Lessons From My Time In Zion
Over the past week, I had the opportunity to spend time with some incredible leaders while camping and hiking in Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon and The Arches in Utah.
1. Stay Curious – When one of the team members was looking for input on an issue they were working on, Chad modeled active listening to gain a better understanding of the situation. By doing so, he was able to clarify the issue and provide guidance that was right on target.
2. Have Fun – When it comes to the best High School Musical jump on the edge of a cliff, Andrew wins by a mile. It was a great reminder to enjoy the moment and bring joy to those around you.
3. Value Family – Rather than driving back with the rest of the group, Kevin flew back home at the end of the trip to make sure he could be present at his kid’s theater performances. What a great way to show your kids they are important.
4. Be A Lifelong Learner – On the drive back home, it was fun to hear some of the podcasts and book studies that Shibu is listening to these days. This not only makes him a better father, but better teacher as well.
5. Take Time For Reflection – While hiking Bryce Canyon, there were areas that transitioned quickly from snow to dry and warm ground. As an analogy, Derek shared the value of reflecting on past times of challenge and success in life to help you better prepare for new opportunities and the journey ahead.
6. Don’t Do It Alone - An old African proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” Dan did a great job pulling together a group of guys to attend the trip, some of which had never met. Not only were some significant connections made, but by going together, we were able to accomplish much more than we ever could have if we would have gone alone.
7. Clarify Vision – Without vision you will miss your goal every time. It was great to hear James begin to clarify some of his personal goals in the upcoming year. I have no doubt he will be successful in his upcoming endeavors.
8. Guide When Needed – When you are working with a team of varying skill levels, it can be tempting to micromanage to get the job done efficiently. When it came to planning the trip and the hiking adventure itself, Ben modeled guidance and patience rather than micromanagement and frustration. Not only did this make the trip much more enjoyable for all, it also equipped others to make decisions and take ownership.
9. Be Willing To Take Risks – In order to grow we often have to step out of our comfort zone. For someone who has never been on a hiking trip, making a week-long trip with a bunch of guys to Zion National Park isn’t on everyone’s bucket list. First time hiker, Caleb, not only signed up for the journey, but looked like an old pro by the end of the week.
10. Gifts Are For Service – Everyone has gifts. Using those gifts to serve others is where fulfillment happens. Todd J used his gifts and passion of cooking to make a hot meal, over the open fire, for our entire team every evening. That was definitely a highlight for both the cook and consumers.
11. Love Your Wife – With his wife celebrating a “significant” birthday, Todd M flew back home at the end of the trip rather than driving back. This allowed him to make it back in time to celebrate the big occasion with his bride.
12. Leaders Go First – When there is a group decision to be made, often the leader needs to set the tone and go first. On more than one occasion, Ethan led by example by sharing his point of view to get the discussion going. (I think we might still be stuck in the campsite with indecision without him).
13. Do Hard Things – Don’t settle for the easy and mediocre, rather do things that push and challenge you. A little illness didn’t deter Adam from conquering some of the more challenging hikes of the week. The “do hard things” character was evident from his years of collegiate sports and personal integrity.
Check out some pictures from our trip, here!
By Rusty Fulling