A Team Adventure on Izta
In May 2011, Terry and I gathered seven colleagues from our Mexico office – an accountant, a graphic designer, programmers, HR staff, and our operations director. It was the perfect day for an adventure that would blend leadership development with mountain climbing.
After a delightful drive through pine-scented mountain roads, we arrived at Popo-Izta National Park. Popo volcano greeted us with a plume of smoke rising into the clear sky.
The Ascent Begins
We guided our team toward the first pass and quickly over the second ridge. After the traverse of the mountain slope, we reached the third pass. Sitting in the saddle between Mexico City and Puebla, we refueled with snacks and discussed the art of coaching. Then, we set our sights on the “Eye of God” – a massive rock formation overlooking Puebla. At this mystical spot, we talked about how God sees us and our identity as leaders. From there, we pushed to the refuge to gather strength for our final ascent.
The Ultimate Test
Due to the warm weather, what is normally a snowy climb was dry and rocky but still challenging. For two hours, we scrambled over granite and lava rocks, gaining 1000 feet to reach 16,000 feet. Our hearts were pumping from excitement and altitude until a couple of team members began experiencing altitude sickness.
At 16,500 feet, we made the leadership decision to stay together and descend. The climb down challenged different muscles and tested weary knees. We supported each other along the way.
Mission Accomplished
Though we didn’t summit that day, we accomplished something greater. Terry and I had the joy of climbing and guiding together. Our team connected deeply through an unforgettable adventure, learning leadership principles that would stay with us long after we returned to the office.
Get your copy of The Summit Within: Embracing the Beauty of Imperfection on Amazon and begin your own summit journey!
Other posts you may like
- The Story Behind the Story, Episode 1
- Father and Son: Triumph and Terror on Izta
- The Summit Within: Embracing the Beauty of Imperfection
Steve Morgan
stevermorgan.com 
It takes great courage to change your goal in light of those you lead. You may not have summited the mountain that day, but you two redefined winning by listening to your teammates and going with the greater good. That’s impressive character, my friend.
You are so kind Dayle. For someone stack-focused and goal-oriented, it was miraculous for me to pivot and redefine success. Of course, any day with Terry and good friends on the mountain is a successfully great day 😂