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I hiked Mt. Monadnock in southern New Hampshire with a friend. A few thousand feet into the 9-mile hike, we quickly realized that we were not going to be successful unless we changed our equipment because the entire trail had flooded and subsequently frozen. We strapped on spikes or crampons and were much more successful with more appropriate gear. We also used trekking poles to keep balance.

As we continued on the trail, our spikes became more and more necessary. The weather changed from cloudy skies, to hail, to snow, and to thicker clouds. There were sections where we were climbing up areas that looked like waterfalls. Although our confidence increased by using the spikes, much of the hike required focus and resilience.

So how does this relate to the business world? The model I like to reference is from Dr. Martin Seligman at the University of Pennsylvania. Seligman, known as the founder of positive psychology, created a model known as PERMA that helps to explain how to develop resilience.

(https://www.authentichappiness.sas.upenn.edu/learn)

PERMA stands for Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships and social connections, Meaning, and Accomplishment. When I reflect back on the hike, I would certainly say that we had a high level of engagement because we had to be very focused on our foot placement. I was with my friend for this adventure, so it built our relationship and social connection. We accomplished the hike, and it provided a lot of meaning, as it was only our second hike together.

The further we climbed, the more confident we both became with challenging moves, some resembling rock climbing instead of hiking! This is an example of how Resilience can be strengthened on and off the job!

In what ways have you strengthened your resilience outside of work? Leave a comment below.

Questions? Let’s connect. I would love to hear your success stories. Please send them to: hello@sarahscala.com or visit www.sarahscala.com

Check out our other blog on Resilience: 5 Ways to Build Resilience in Business - Sustaining Strong Leaders and Organizations

Check out our new Digital Course Optimism, Resilience and Grit: Sustaining Success at Work and Home.

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About the Author:
Sarah Scala is a senior talent management leader and executive coach with 20+ years of experience providing organization development, change management, and leadership development solutions for diverse global and local industries. She is a collaborative consultant, coach, and educator supporting performance transformation of executives, leaders, and teams. Sarah is a methodical, results-driven leader recognized for helping clients reach their highest potential, increase revenue, reduce turnover, elevate business profitability, build competencies, and improve performance.

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Hikes, Spikes and Resilience