My Journey in Rafting (Story Series)

It was a cool day in the Tennessee mountains. Five of my buddies and I were about to embark on a white-water rafting adventure on the Ocoee River. This is the same river where the 1996 Olympic White water rafting event was held. I might have looked confident on the outside – full of bravado - but inside, I was filled with apprehension about facing rapids with names like "Grumpy" and "Table Saw."

Our river guide, Tom, brought a calming presence to our group.  He emphasized the importance that listening and teamwork would have on the success of our adventure.  Before stepping foot into our raft, he had us practicing rowing commands and drilled us on safety instructions.  Only then were we allowed to bravely launch our raft and navigate through the various levels of rapids.  One particular challenge, the "Washing Machine," tested our preparation and teamwork, but we emerged victorious!  Despite hiccups along the way, our group learned valuable lessons about leadership, preparation, and staying vigilant. 

My friends and I had come to the river seeking a thrilling adventure, and we were not disappointed.   But little did I know when we set out that day how profoundly this single rafting trip would impact my life journey and career from that point forward. This was the day I was inspired to become a true leader and a student of authentic leadership.  I've now spent the last 35 years in various leadership roles, ranging from supervising just a few associates in entry-level management positions to eventually presiding over a team of nearly 10,000 as the President of a prominent hospitality firm. It's been an extraordinary and challenging journey, and I can assure you that the rewards are well worth the effort needed to pursue excellence in leadership.

According to Robin S. Sharma, “Leadership is not about a title or a designation. It’s about impact, influence and inspiration. Impact involves getting results, influence is about spreading the passion you have for your work, and you have to inspire team-mates and customers.”

 Perhaps you have found yourself thrust into a leadership role unexpectedly. That is a scenario many of us face at some point in our careers. Leadership can often unfold swiftly, and it's a responsibility that some shy away from due to its weight, while others are drawn in by the allure of titles and prestige. Regardless of your path to leadership, one thing is certain: success as a leader demands a willingness to learn, unwavering confidence, and resilience. In the pages of this book, "The River Guide to Leadership," I aim to share a wealth of experiences, drawn from my journey as both a follower and a leader, to make your transition and tenure in leadership smoother.

 Now, let's address a common misconception about leadership: it's neither a matter of innate talent nor hereditary privilege. Leadership is a skill that can be acquired, and that's precisely what I intend to impart through the pages of this book - clear, straightforward, and proven techniques to lead effectively.

 In today's ever-changing business landscape, leadership mirrors the role of a skilled river guide. Just as a river guide expertly navigates through challenging waters, leaders must guide their teams through uncertain environments.

 This book, "The River Guide to Leadership," will serve as your compass on this leadership voyage, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to become an exceptional leader. Together, we'll draw inspiration from the river metaphor to explore the essential qualities, strategies, and mindset that empower leaders to steer their teams towards success. In each chapter you will find detailed lists of actions or qualities you must follow or possess as you progress forward in your journey.

"The River Guide to Leadership" has been shaped over the years through talks, presentations, personal experiences, and even the lessons learned from failures. You might wonder why we've chosen the river as our guiding metaphor. The answer is simple: simplicity and memorability. As you delve into this book, the river imagery will become vivid in your mind, providing not only mental images of our examples but also a set of practical principles that are easy to grasp and share.

 As you embark on this transformative journey through "The River Guide to Leadership," prepare to uncover the essence of leadership in a straightforward and relatable manner. I'm here to offer guidance and clarity in a world that often appears complex and uncertain.

I wish you the best of luck as you dive into the pages of this book and commence your incredible adventure of learning and leadership!

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