This post is one of Jeff’s regular submissions in the “Supercharge Change” series. Subscribe for free insights, tools, and videos here.
Vines wrapped around my legs and chest, I was lost in the rainforest.
Yesterday I took off on one of my long walks in Hawaii, headed in the general direction of a mountain lookout. Upon entering the rainforest for the last leg of my trek, I quickly found that the uphill segments were extremely slick and muddy due to rainfall. Impassable. I turned back only to find that I could no longer see the trail. I’m sure it was there, but totally obscured.
In a scene straight out of Jumanji, I wrestled with vines that criss-crossed every which way trying to trip me while I attempted to keep my head up watching for snakes and spiders. It’s pouring rain and I’m now sporting an attractive layer of jungle mud. At one point I was literally tied up with hanging vines. Panic? No.
I know that help is not far away and I’ll reach it. I’m strong enough to break the vines (although I avoided it as much as possible). I have my phone and decent cell reception.
I set out that day with a goal and I moved steadily toward it. I met an obstacle I could not get around ON THAT DAY. I’m all for moving quickly but I’m also a realist.
Progress says that today is the best day for change. Act Now!
Practicality says that tomorrow may be a better day to move forward.
Resilience says I WILL reach my goal. Failure today is not failure tomorrow. Change leaders keep their teams focused on the goal. They continue to paint the picture of life on the other side of the change. Hope remains in view even during setbacks.
I emerged from the rainforest 100 feet from where I entered it, kicked off the mud and walked back into town knowing I would be back to finish the journey. Eyes on the prize!
