Leadership Lessons on Mount Kilimanjaro
This week on Visionary Leader, Extraordinary Life, we replayed our show with 13-time Paralympic Medalist and Executive Director of One Revolution, Chris Waddell. In 1988, Chris was a promising young skier at Middlebury College in Vermont when he lost the use of both of his legs in a skiing accident. Since that time, Chris led a most extraordinary life. He is a Paralympic Champion - medaling in both the summer and winter games. In 2009, Chris Waddell set out to be the first paraplegic to summit Mount Kilimanjaro unassisted. During his journey, Chris faced some fierce challenges on his handcycle and learned some important leadership lessons along the way.
Like many leaders, Chris had set a goal: to reach the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro. As he faced challenges along the way, Chris became more and more focused on the goal, keeping his head down and forcing himself and his team to continue forward toward the top. A few of the challenges seemed insurmountable, until Chris was able to stop, lift his head, and take a moment to see the big picture. When he was less focused on the target itself, and more on the process of getting there, Chris found that there were many twists and turns along the way - some of which offered great opportunities. Chris realized he could simultaneously hold on and strive for the ultimate goal, while making some adjustments to accommodate surprises along the way.
Like Chris, visionary leaders need to be able to step back, assess the situation and accept reality. They are then able to make adjustments to the plan in order to achieve the goal.
How well are you and your organization able to make adjustments mid-course in order to adapt to new situations?
Were you inspired by Chris and his story? Make a donation or buy the One Revolution DVD at One Revolution. Listen to the full episode here.