Skiing can make you a better leader

In between gliding through groomers, dodging trees in the glades, I had a lot of time to reflect on what helped me navigate through all life challenges, becoming more resilient and unlocking opportunities are the skills I learned and practice in the sport of skiing.

Here are the four key lessons that I have adopted from skiing to leadership which has helped me lift my inner game at work.

Staying focused

I must be in tune with my body and the rhythm at each turn while constantly scanning the terrain and the environment around me. To stay focused and be in the moment, I practice and use mindfulness techniques while I am skiing.

I start with breathing exercises when I am on the lift and before starting the run, then pick my line, visualize going down the mountain, breathe and ski off. As a leader I practice mindfulness throughout the day to remain calm, focused and think clearly.

Taking calculated risks

Taking calculated risks is an essential element of the sport – once you’re on top of that mountain there is only one way down. I need to understand my own capabilities, my limits but also pushing myself a little out of my comfort zone. I don’t mean trying out a double black off-piste run when you can barely parallel turn but researching about the runs before you go up, taking your time to plan out the best route and pick your line.

I took a calculated risk last year by accepting a new role on a new continent and moving halfway across the world in the middle of a global pandemic. I learned so many things along the way as did my wife. As a leader and as a family unit we learned that we were adaptable, can deal with uncertainty and embrace a new environment – all the skills essential for leadership and growth. 

Overcoming fears

Trusting your instincts and overcoming your fears is essential to leadership and skiing. I am an intermediate skier and like my long blue runs while perfecting my turns. I had a skiing accident a couple of years ago and am always thinking: ‘What if I fall and injure myself again?’

It is this self-limiting belief that is sometimes holding back my skiing potential. I have to challenge myself and go down those black runs where I know I have the technical ability. In leadership, you have to apply the same mentality – step out of your comfort zone, be vulnerable and overcome your fears. 

Dealing with setbacks

As any avid skier will attest, you will fall and that’s part of the sport. Another skier recently told me, if you’re not falling once in a while then you’re not challenging yourself. I certainly faced some setback, but they are usually the most rewarding experiences.

Dealing with setbacks is a part of life and being a leader. How do you pick yourself up after falling and keep going? What tools do you have in your tool belt to help you deal with setbacks? The challenges and roadblocks are opportunities for growth and building resilience.

Skiing has given me the opportunity to practice skills that are essential for leadership in a completely different context and environment. This is where learning and growth occurs – applying the theory outside the training room.