Crossing the Andes: A Leadership Lesson at 35,000 Feet

Crossing over the Andes Mountains from Buenos Aires into Santiago reminded me of executive leadership. From 35,000 feet, the snow-covered peaks, glacial valleys, rugged ridgelines, and volcanic formations revealed how beauty and strength are formed through pressure over time.

Leadership is similar. Vision allows leaders to rise above distractions like mountain peaks. Resilience is shaped through difficult valleys. And beneath calm exteriors, many carry unseen pressure while guiding others forward.

What struck me most was this: the Andes are not beautiful despite their harshness — they are beautiful because of it.

The same is true for great leadership.