“Climb every mountain, ford every stream,
follow every rainbow, ’till you find your dream.” – Rodgers and Hammerstein
I recently came across an article (Simoni & Morin, 2020) providing tips for people looking to enjoy the great outdoors and do some mountaineering. I’ve heard many of my HR colleagues speak about their work, especially during these dynamic times, as feeling like trekking up elevated terrain. So, I offer the following HR-related insights based upon the climbing advice that I read:
1) Check conditions before you head out.
Do you know the environment you are working within? Have you really tried to gauge and understand your organization’s culture? Now more than ever, the value of employee surveys is critical. As well, in addition to the power of “why” we need to focus on the power of “how”. It is important to ask people how they are doing and to ensure that we know how their work is going, regardless of where they are performing these roles. Outcomes achieved without focus on the context in which it is being done is both impractical and perilous.
2) Make sure your cell phone is fully charged.
Is your network powered? Do you have people you can call on to support you, provide benchmarking resources and lend you an ear to vent to or shoulder to lean on? As HR professionals we must continue to help each other rise and flourish. Travelling up our respective mountains is not a solo expedition and it is not prudent to venture out alone.
3) Wear comfortable hiking boots.
Self-care is important. Are you making sure that you are equipped for each day’s travels? Attending to your own needs and resources (physical and psychological) is needed. One cannot pour from an empty vessel and you must ensure that you have the right tools and resources and correct mental state of mind before you set out.
4) Make noise and scare off the bears.
Do you take the time to share your successes and accomplishments? If you don’t make others aware of how you are contributing to the success of your organization who will? This is not a case of hubris, but is helping educate and inform others of the value provided by HR professionals. It is also imperative to keep the “bears”, or harmful people, at bay. Those that acknowledge and celebrate the significant work they accomplish are less likely to be impacted by negative individuals.
5) Don’t litter or leave garbage on the trails.
What legacy are you leaving? It is valuable to reflect on this question. Time to ruminate on one’s actions and the outcomes produced will serve to enhance work and overall well-being. More than just what we do, it is important to understand and appreciate the impact we have on others. What are you leaving behind on your path?
May you continue to safely and expertly navigate your journey and ensure that you have made appropriate plans for each day’s quest. Oh, and when you reach the top of a mountain (literally or figuratively), don’t forget to take the time to pause, breath and enjoy the view.
Happy trails!
References
Rodgers, R., & O. Hammerstein. (1965). Climb every mountain lyrics. Lyricsmode. https://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/r/rodgers_and_hammerstein/climb_every_mountain.html
Simhoni, G., & Morin, B. (Fall 2020). How to climb a mountain. AMA digital magazine. https://amainsider.com/digital-edition/