Leadership Lessons from Sugar Loaf Trail

by Chris Rollins, Steve Howard, Frank Robinson, Tim, Tyler and Trey Kirkes (fellow hikers)

• Everybody wants to lead going downhill.
• Anyone can lead when there is a trail.
• Leaders know when to go off trail.
• Leaders need to stay close enough to be seen, but far enough ahead not to hear what followers are saying about him (don’t take things personally).
• Bring enough water (be prepared).
• Be thankful for shade and a cool breezes (attitude of gratitude).
• Always believe the end of the trail is just around the next bend, even when it isn’t (optimism).
• Cat’s Claw (thorn bush) hurts everybody equally (don’t think you are worse off than others).
• Younger, weaker folk may go slower and need more breaks, but they can make it to the top, encourage them.
• Younger, weaker folk may go slower and need more breaks, so be patient with them.  When they make it to the top they will be your greatest supporters.
• The view at the top is worth the pain of the trail (endure).
• If you’re looking too far ahead, you may wander off the trail (stay focused).
• When you can, have fun, throw rocks, be a kid.