Soaring Without Limits

Gliding Lessons for the Business World?

In the early 1980s, a childhood fascination with aviation—sparked while assisting my grandmother and observing planes—began a lifelong journey. This fascination was not with the roar of jet engines but with the silent, graceful dance of gliders in the sky. This passion, which I rediscovered later in life, became a metaphor for personal and professional growth, teaching me invaluable lessons that were applicable far beyond the airfield.?

The Journey Begins?

The rediscovery of my 'blue flame'—gliding—came during a period of personal grief and stagnation. It was a reminder of the freedom and aspirations of my youth. Embracing the principles of science and neuroplasticity, with guidance from mentors, I learned the importance of movement, both physically in the air and mentally, from inertia to action. This process was not instantaneous but a journey of self-discovery and perseverance.?

Lessons from the Sky?

Gliding is more than a sport; it's a study in psychology, strategy, and physics. Each flight is a lesson in understanding oneself and the environment. From the 'Eureka moment' of finding the perfect thermal to the critical decisions made during an emergency landing in a field, gliding requires a blend of intuition, skill, and knowledge. My experiences at the Booker Gliding Club , filled with stories of freedom found and challenges overcome, echoed the complexities of navigating life and business.?

Applying Gliding Principles to Business?

The principles of gliding offer profound insights into business leadership. The ability to soar vast distances without a traditional engine parallels the entrepreneurial journey—vision, resilience, and adaptability are core to both. Similarly, creating a supportive culture among pilots reflects the necessity of collective belief and teamwork in overcoming business challenges. Data-driven navigation in gliding teaches the importance of informed decision-making. At the same time, the path from dream to success, as outlined by Steven Bartlett , emphasises the need for clear objectives, detailed planning, and consistent action. The journey of gliding, filled with its highs and lows, is a powerful metaphor for the pursuit of business success, underscored by a deep sense of personal meaning and fulfilment.?

In conclusion, the lessons learned from Silent Flights of Gliders provide a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and strategic thinking in business. As we navigate our professional journeys, taking inspiration from the skies—soaring without limits, guided by vision, and supported by a community of like-minded individuals.?

My takeaways from this initial learning ?

?‘Do not trust emotions, but we need them to make decisions’?

Most decisions are based on emotions, but emotion is a sign to stop - look?for facts and data, making decisions based on perspectives, not perceptions. ?

What are your thoughts??