The Path to Resilience

A few years ago I embarked on a challenging 28-day backpacking and rock-climbing adventure through the four corners. That trip proved to be a pivotal event in my life and for my career in the federal government. It was like something had awakened inside of me. I returned home with a deeper sense of resiliency and confidence in my leadership potential. I had the following major takeaways:

• Resiliency – Never lose sight of the big picture. When climbing some of the highest mountains covered in snow I was ready to give up as my reaction to the high altitude worsened. Often times in the federal government it is easy to give up after a lot of push back. Do not lose sight of your goal. There is potential even if it takes smaller steps.

• Be bold – Try something that you never thought you could achieve.

• Confidence – After hiking many miles with a 65-pound backpack, I returned with the confidence to push through obstacles I felt were impossible.

• Managing Change – Thing never go according to plan. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve gotten lost, gear break, food spoiled, or gotten sick on trail. At no point do I ever plan this. In the federal government change is inevitable. Accept this as reality.

• Self Reflection – Spending time in the wilderness removes you from life’s distractions, including social media. As a leader it is important to make the time to self reflect. You never know what you are capable of becoming when you don’t take the time to reflect.