Are you a true leader? Or someone who just delegates tasks? As resilient, adaptable, and innovative leaders are not created behind a desk, in an ergonomic chair, drinking coffee or tea. It will surprise you that most of the successful business leaders have outdoor skills and have a strong connection with nature.
When individuals are removed from the comforts of modern society and placed in the rugged and unpredictable environment of the wilderness, they are forced to confront their weaknesses and develop the skills necessary to survive and thrive in challenging situations. These skills and experiences gained through wilderness leadership are highly transferable to the workplace.
Leaders who have developed these skills are better equipped to handle the challenges of a rapidly changing business environment. They are more adaptable, resilient, and able to build strong relationships with their team members.
These 5 business leaders have learnt wilderness leadership and have transferred these skills into their business.
1. Jeff Bezoz
The founder and former CEO of Amazon, spent time in the wilderness as a teenager as part of an Eagle Scout program. He credits his experiences in the wilderness with teaching him important lessons about leadership and resilience.
One of the key aspects of leadership in the wilderness is the need to rely on the strengths of others in order to succeed. In the wilderness, no one person can do everything alone. Leaders must learn how to delegate tasks, communicate effectively, and build trust with their team members in order to accomplish their goals.
2. Howard Schultz
The former CEO of Starbucks, has also spoken about the importance of spending time in nature. He has participated in wilderness expeditions and outdoor adventures, which he says have helped him develop important leadership skills.
In the wild, situations can change quickly, and leaders must be able to adapt to new challenges and unexpected obstacles. They must also be able to make decisions quickly and confidently, even when they have limited information.
Upcoming Expedition
3. Chip Bergh
The CEO of Levi Strauss & Co., is an avid outdoorsman who has climbed mountains and participated in wilderness expeditions. He has spoken about how these experiences have helped him build resilience and develop leadership qualities.
Another important aspect of wilderness leadership is the ability to navigate uncertainty and ambiguity. Wilderness leaders are more effective at managing risk and decision-making in high-pressure situations.
2022 Arctic Expedition Svalbard
4. Ursula Burns
The former CEO of Xerox, has also spent time in the wilderness and credits her experiences with teaching her important lessons about teamwork and collaboration.
In the wilderness, leaders are developed through experiences that require them to make difficult decisions, work collaboratively with others, and adapt to changing circumstances. These experiences build resilience, self-awareness, and a deep understanding of what it takes to lead effectively.
5. Tim Cook
The CEO of Apple, is an avid hiker and has spoken about the importance of nature and the outdoors in his life. He has credited his experiences in the wilderness with helping him develop important leadership qualities such as perseverance and adaptability.
Wilderness leaders are good business leaders, as they able to think creatively and outside the box when faced with difficult problems, and they are able to inspire and motivate their team members to achieve their goals.
Overall, leadership in the wilderness is a powerful way to develop true leaders. The skills and experiences gained through this type of leadership are highly valuable in the workplace, and can help individuals become more effective and successful leaders.
Upcoming expeditions
Become a Business Leader with Survival Skills
tags: how to become a better business leader?
