SIGN UP FOR FREE | SIGN IN
Thinkers360

Leadership Lessons from Skydiving

May14



Throwback to my first parachute jump a long time ago! Just stumbled upon this old photo and couldn’t help but reflect on the journey it began, and which lasted a number of years.
Many thanks in advance to all of you who will no doubt say that it looks like it was only yesterday and I haven't aged a bit .

Taking that leap out of a perfectly good airplane for the first time was a rush unlike any other. It was also the start of a skydiving journey that taught me invaluable lessons about leadership which have stayed with me all these years:

1. Embrace Uncertainty: Just like every jump is different, leadership often involves navigating through uncertainty. Learning to adapt and make decisions with limited information is crucial.

2. Trust is Key: In skydiving, you trust your gear, your training, and your jumpmaster. Similarly, leadership requires building and maintaining trust with your team.

3. Preparation Matters: Meticulous preparation before each jump made all the difference. The same applies to leadership - preparing yourself and your team can set you up for success.

4. Stay Calm Under Pressure: Keeping your cool when things don’t go as planned is essential, both in the air and in the office.

5. Celebrate Achievements: Each safe landing feels like a big win. Celebrating these moments and recognizing achievements can boost morale and drive in any team.

Every jump has reinforced these lessons, reminding me that leadership, much like skydiving, is not just about the thrill but about handling the highs and the lows with grace and resilience.

By Dara Kiernan

Keywords: Coaching, Leadership, Management

Share this article