Have you watched a movie which has profoundly touched you? Left you awake at night replaying the scenes and conversations? Finding yourself reflecting on your life, wondering what you would do if you were in the same situation?

My husband and I left the theatre after the credits stopped rolling at the end of Everest, confronted with the affect the movie had on both of us. Putting aside the fact that my hubby is a sentimental Kiwi, neither of couldn't go to sleep! This raw true story touched at our shared values, beliefs and motives.

Spoiler Alert!

In Everest, several deaths occurred because of the weather - however it was the decision of a few people to pursue their personal performance goals and others being so accommodating of others needs which led to these deaths. What was paramount in these conditions, known and needed was the adherence to processes and plans in place which have worked in the past resulting in no deaths.

That big mountain appeared to be quite predictable, however, the key character was unpredictable and changed plans, ignored the processes and unfortunately it was worst case scenario. Death. 

What has stayed with me is that leaders have a tough job dealing with unpredictable humans! Which means, the more we understand about personality and what drives people the less complex it becomes. Saying that is easy, working at it is tough. Our role as a leader is more about people, not the mountain!

I'm impressed that people heading to work in the Antarctica complete the Strength Deployment Inventory to enable a shared understanding of each others strengths, behaviours and in particular, how they will react in conflict. I'm sure the outcome in Everest would have resulted differently if they had a better understanding of each person's personality in tough situations. 

Your team may not be climbing Everest, however, at times it will feel like it, given the challenges, conflict and communication which is 'going on' in the business. Let me help you re-energize each member of the team for their next trek!