Want to lead with ease?
Choose your context and build your skills.
Today I went for my favorite hike in Rocky Mountain National Park, the Four Lake Loop.
The last time I did this hike was in the summer of 2021.
While not an easy hike, I was struck by how much more ease I felt over those 8 miles than on previous visits.
What’s different for me compared to 2021?
Context and skill.
In late 2021 we moved 2000 feet higher in elevation, to 7550 ft. That makes a difference when you’re starting your hike at 9500.
And since moving, we are on the trails with our dog nearly every day. Plus the closer access to longer and higher hikes means more miles and elevation gain.
The move to higher elevation changed my context.
The increased volume and difficulty of hikes improved my skill.
As you learn how to lead with ease, you need to recognize you have control over your context and skill.
Context—your environment. If it’s not the right environment for you to expand, change your context. But be honest with yourself: do you need to change your context, or your attitude towards it?
Skill—your leadership capabilities. Practice. Try things that feel hard. When you fall down, pick yourself up, reflect on your mistakes, and keep going.
Context and skill.
Get the first right and keep building the second, and you’re on your way to leading with ease.
PS—It’s such a gift to have this gem of a National Park only 2 hours away. I was reminded today that it’s on many people’s bucket lists, and that visitors from around the globe make the trek. How lucky am I to live so close?
PSA—If you do come to visit, please wear appropriate footwear and carry water.
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