Climbing Leadership: Conquer Yourself, Not Just the Mountain

“It is not the mountain we conquer, but ourselves.” — Sir Edmund Hillary

Have you ever noticed that climbers going down a steep mountain are often more jolly and talkative than those going up?

Going up demands focus, careful footing, and constant attention. Every step is a micro-decision. The path is uncertain, and the risk is high. The energy is inward, the mind alert.

Coming down, the hard work is done. Confidence grows with each safe step. The view feels earned. Conversation flows.

Executive leadership is similar: the climb toward vision and growth is intense and disciplined.

Takeaway: Don’t get overwhelmed on the climb up — the trail also leads down, and there will be time enough to give that TED Talk.