Into the Wild
Bighorn Range, Wyoming
In the summer of 1987, I spent three weeks in the Bighorn mountains in Wyoming as part of a wilderness expedition training program with the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS). We were there to learn how to prepare, navigate and ultimately lead others in backcountry travel. I arrived with a new set of hiking boots and an adventurous spirit. We were supplied with equipment and provisions for an off-trail, unsupported (other than one resupply) trek into the mountains.
We walked, climbed and hiked for days upon days, all the while learning about nutrition, mountain medicine, setting up tarps (no tents) below and above tree line, weather patterns, edible plants, cooking (even baking in an open fire), and many other useful skills. The most important lessons, however, were orienteering and group dynamics. We were taught how to read a topographical map and use a compass to navigate the terrain, and to work together to plan and solve problems.
After breakfast each morning the group came together to decide where to set up camp later that day, being careful to select a spot that covered the miles needed, had access to fresh water, and was protected, if possible, from the elements. Then came the most challenging but also the most energizing part. Once we were packed up for the day, we were divided into teams of three or four, then separated from the other groups and tasked with selecting a route (remember, no paths), navigating the terrain, supporting each other, watching for hazards, locating water, and basically working together to get safely to the next location. Each day new groups were formed, which meant learning how to work with different people with a wide range of personalities, talents and abilities. Our guides provided just enough coaching to help us learn how to plan, problem-solve, and ultimately succeed as working teams. They stayed close enough to help as needed, but otherwise left us to go and grow on our own.
I loved that experience. It has had a profound influence on how I think about leadership, coaching, capacity building and team development ever since. There is nothing like coming together as a group, developing deep connections, tapping everyone’s gifts and resources, taking ownership of the task, facing challenges, brainstorming solutions, and working together to accomplish things we couldn’t achieve on our own. Building confidence and capacity in others, and developing productive teams, is the very essence of good leadership.
