Reaching a peak before the summit

Mindset

Reaching a peak before the summit

We are bombarded by subliminal messages that say we should be frustrated by the long and onerous journey. The journey is neither long nor onerous.

I saw this image this morning, and it made me stop in my tracks.

I call B.S. This company should know better than to use negative tactics to sell a product. This shows a meaningless journey. Why is this stickman struggling to climb upwards if the prospect of a longer journey defeats him?

Is my goal always to climb upwards?

Do you like what you do? Do you love what you do? I ask myself these questions. Yes, I can get frustrated. Most of the time I enjoy what I do, especially when I get into a flow state.

Am I struggling?

The image assumes that you are struggling to get to the peak. If this is true, I think a career shift is in your future. Reaching a peak is an opportunity to stop and rest.

Am I too busy to look around and assess where I am?

Have you turned around and looked at the view? Have you celebrated the peak you are at? If you have, you’re invigorated and ready to climb to the next peak in life, product, or what have you.

Am I frustrated with the process of learning and growth?

Most people are led by their curiosity and love of learning. You’re climbing that mountain to see where you can get and for the view. You have real drivers behind your ascent.

Do I need to get to the top of the mountain?

Many people are content to build their houses on peaks. Living at the summit is not a place for everyone. From a product journey perspective, hills, valleys, and multiple peaks often need to be assessed. There is no one true steep path. The destination is not fixed.

Final thoughts

Reaching a peak is an accomplishment. Celebrate the win. Take the time to rest. Take the time to reassess your direction and drivers.

Whatever you do, don’t be deceived by your initial destination and say, ‘Oh, crap!’