Becoming Our Best
A CLIMB UP MT. DANA
At 13,057ft. elevation, Mt. Dana is the second highest point in Yosemite National Park . My hiking partner and I decided to take a scramble up to the top a few weeks ago. Eight hours later and over 6000 ft of up and down left me with some valuable lessons, a few sore muscles, and the joy of the incredible vistas from the summit.
It was a hard hike to the top and back through talus and scree, made easier and safer by the use of hiking poles (somewhat like ski poles, only of adjustable length). I'd forgotten my poles and my friend kindly lent me one of his, leaving each of us with only one.
So what can we learn from a mountain like Dana?
• Take care of your team, even if it costs you something. Mike sacrificed some of his personal safety and comfort to loan me that invaluable pole for the climb.
• Prepare for the unexpected. We started off under clear, blue skies with no wind. As we climbed higher, the winds increased, clouds began to gather and the temperatures dropped.
• Slow down a bit when the going gets tough. It's tempting to keep up a quick pace, even when you and the team are wobbly. But a fall will cost you even more time in getting up and regrouping.
• Take the long and short view alternately as you go forward. You can lose the trail by not looking up, but if you don't look down to see where your feet are at the moment, a stumble is almost certain.
It's good to challenge yourself and your team with goals and timelines that exert them. That's the path to growth and development. But also remember to take some time and savor the moment when you reach the summit!
Author: Bruce Johnsen Management Consultant:
824 Munras Ave Suite G
Monterey, CA 93940
831-373-5969
bruce@brucejohnsen.com
Back to BOB Main