By James P. Grenon

During the pandemic, like many I found myself needing an escape—something to help clear my mind and reset. That’s when I rediscovered my passion for hiking. As a young boy and Eagle Scout I had loved exploring trails, but life got busy, and I hadn’t done a major hike in many years. What started as a way to get outdoors quickly became a newfound passion that shaped my leadership philosophy in ways I never expected.

I spent months planning my first major hike, convincing my wife, setting stretch goals, and training for the challenge ahead. The preparation was intense, but it taught me a lesson that applies directly to leadership: success isn’t just about reaching the summit—it’s about how you get there and who you bring along for the journey.

5 Leadership Lessons from the Trail

1. Preparation is Key to Success

Just as you wouldn’t embark on a challenging hike without a plan or compass, great leaders don’t go into business without preparation. You need to understand the terrain, anticipate obstacles, and have a backup plan for when things don’t go as expected.

Tip: As Stephen Covey so eloquently put it, “Begin with the end in mind.” Set clear goals, but also prepare for detours along the way—because success isn’t always a straight path.

2. Manage the Group’s Pace

Too fast, and people burn out. Too slow, and frustration builds. On the trail and in business, pacing matters. A strong leader knows when to push forward and when to slow down to keep the team together.

Tip: Avoid imaginary roadblocks that can strangle your team’s potential. Sometimes, what we see as protection can actually hold people back.

3. Anticipate Challenges Ahead

Weather changes. Trails get rough. In leadership, just like in hiking, the unexpected is inevitable. The key is to stay adaptable and use past experiences to navigate future challenges.

Tip: Communicate, ask, and observe. Proactive leaders anticipate needs and adjust accordingly.

4. Who You Bring on the Journey Matters

The right team can make or break an experience. Surrounding yourself with the right mix of peers, mentors, and supporters is crucial for success.

I learned this firsthand on my hike—there were moments I couldn’t have made it without my team. They encouraged me, kept morale high, and had my back when the trail got tough.

Tip: Build teams based on character, competency, and culture. Who’s got your back, and who’s back do you have?

5. Stop and Smell the Flowers

For nearly 48 hours on that hike I didn’t think once about the pandemic, work stress, or daily worries. Instead, I recharged—mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally. It reminded me that slowing down isn’t a weakness; it’s a necessity.

Tip: Leaders need time to reflect and decompress. Encourage breaks, celebrate progress, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination.

Bringing It Back to Leadership

Hiking reinforced what I already knew but often forgot: leadership is about strategy, growth, and people. Just like on the trail, the workplace requires preparation, adaptability, and a strong, supportive team.

James Grenon is VP-administration with Summit Credit Union in Greensboro, N.C.