Joe Gilbey’s Post

Last week, I had the opportunity to hit the slopes for the first time in a year, and let me tell you, the conditions were absolutely perfect! The fresh powder, the crisp mountain air—it was pure bliss. However, despite my excitement, I quickly realized that my skiing technique wasn't up to par with my previous seasons. I was rusty and disappointed. It got me thinking: no matter how physically fit I am or how rigorous my cardio training may be, there's no substitute for actually hitting the slopes and practicing my skiing skills. It's a reminder that training is only one part of the equation; you have to engage in the real thing to truly excel. This experience parallels many aspects of business and leadership. Just like skiing, mastering complex human behaviors in the workplace requires consistent practice and hands-on experience. You can have all the theoretical knowledge and training programs in the world, but if you don't actively apply and refine your skills in real-world scenarios, you risk losing the technical proficiency needed to succeed. Remember, practice the real thing, get feedback, and iterate. What skill do you need to get more practice in? Giving feedback, communication, delegation, developing trust? Please share below. #Alaska #skiing #smallbiz #CEO #leadership

I needed to learn... and fast! My wife planned our family vacation - skiing at June Lake, CA. The drive was easy, the weather was perfect, and all was set up for success, except... I kept falling, and falling hard. I couldn't figure out what to fix, but I wasn't giving up on our goal of a great skiing weekend. I had some previous training and skied novice runs successfully in the past, but my skill level was painfully inadequate (my elbow still hurts). So, I signed up for a lesson. Guided practice, targeted coaching, and graduated levels of challenge, coupled with encouragement from peers, led to a much better outcome. Expert learning takes context and capacity - with these together, you get people with the will and the skill to meet or exceed performance improvement goals. Here I am at the end of my lesson, taking a pause at 10,000 ft. #expertlearning #continuousimprovement #getbackup #upskilling Image Description: A skier poses on a slope with a ski lift and mountain range in the background

Embracing New Heights: From Ski Slopes to Career Success 🏔️ As ski season bids adieu in Utah, I reflect on my first year of learning to ski. Despite my fear of heights, I decided not to let it hinder me from enjoying the mountains. Just like tackling new opportunities in my career, I approached skiing with determination. I took lessons, found a supportive instructor, and practiced relentlessly. Each step was incremental, just like mastering new skills in the workplace. My instructor understood my goals and guided me patiently, much like a mentor in my career would. We worked on building confidence and strength, gradually expanding my comfort zone. As I stood atop the mountain, gazing at breathtaking views, I realized the parallels between conquering fears in skiing and seizing opportunities in my profession. Let this be a reminder: never let fear hold you back from new challenges. Seek out opportunities, surround yourself with a supportive team, and embrace the journey of growth both on the slopes and in your career. #EmbraceOpportunities #CareerGrowth #OvercomeFear"

Hey #customereducation and #customersuccess family! Tomorrow, I hit the slopes for the first time in 2024. Why bring this up? Well, because it's related to both topics! Growing up in the Midwest, #skiing wasn't realistic. I learned later in life - in my 40s! Surprisingly, the learning journey I was on reminded me of all the #training I'd created over the years, and why #learning is vital to #b2bsaas and the world in general. Last year was the first time I felt really confident and could hit the Black Diamond runs (and not think I was going to die)! Without expert #coaching - not just classes, but instruction from peers and experts who have a lifetime of experience to share - I wouldn't have figured this out. Customer Education is like skiing. You're gonna fall. A lot. If you aren't, you may not really be learning. Best to have a coach who can laugh with you and help you get back up! If you need that coach, or even just a trusted peer to listen and provide feedback, check out the following link! https://lnkd.in/gVMwq4ZN

Over the past five decades, I've spent countless hours: On cross-country tracks On groomed slopes In the powdery backcountry And I've learned a few lessons about leadership and life along the way. Invest in Growth ↳ Top skiers invest time, effort, and money in training and gear. Embrace Mistakes ↳ Skiing teaches us that falling is part of the journey. Seek Guidance ↳ Like on the slopes, mentors in life are game-changers. Maintain Equilibrium ↳ Skiing teaches balance, on slopes and in life. Adaptability Matters ↳ Learn to pivot when circumstances shift. Enjoy the Journey ↳ Savor the moments and appreciate the beauty along the way. No matter what it is, wisdom can be found in the most unexpected places. Whether you're on the slopes or navigating the ups and downs of leadership and life… These principles borrowed from skiing can guide you toward a successful and fulfilling journey.

Proud to share that I have achieved the highest award in my skiing journey! Despite my initial fear of heights and falling, I decided to take on the challenge five years ago. It wasn't easy being a slow learner, but I kept at it. This year, I finally skied from the top of a mountain to the bottom. Through this experience, I learned that fear is a natural part of the learning process. It's important to trust the process and not let fear hold you back. Falling is inevitable, but there will always be someone to help you get back up. To accomplish your goals, it's crucial to look ahead and not down. And sometimes, a bit of speed is necessary to turn the corners. It may not always be pleasant, but it's worth it. I hope my experience inspires you to push past your fears and achieve your own goals. #learninganddevelopment #successmindset #personaldevelopment

Struggling to figure out where to go for summer ski training? We're here to help! In our latest blog, Oh The Places You'll Ski: Summer Training Guide, our SYNC Independent Athletes provided expert insights into 5 summer training locations. Head to the link below to read the blog and guide you to the perfect summer training location!

"Where you focus is Where you go", a lesson from skiing that works in our personal and business growth journey. Are you focusing on the trees and other obstacles or downhill? #focus #career #development #leadereship

The road to mastery is a tradeoff between capability and courage. To be confident on any slope, the skier must master shorter turns. But, for shorter turns, the skier needs to have speed. - I was studying time management without being busy first. - I trained people in Project Management who were leading no project - they had no speed, but still, they wanted to master carving. - I worked with people who studied MBA programs just after they finished university. They started “skiing” lesson analyzing black runs — focusing on controlling speed without having confidence in standing in the skies Skiing, like almost anything, becomes more fun as we improve. Speed is dangerous but important. Every skier needs to be confident standing and moving in the skies; then, he can increase the speed, and master short turns or even carving. As it is not wise to go full speed down the slope on the first day, it is not wise to delay the necessity to speed up. Learning starts with practice and grows to education. The road to mastery requires taking a risk - taking more responsibility - even for actions we do not qualify for. Cheers ;) #personaldevelopment #mastery #competency #responsibility

It's not only about your professional development. Starting my onboard training tomorrow with True North Sailing School