After returning from a magical trip to Machu Picchu and taking my usual three-mile hike in Montclair with my dog, Bear, I started reflecting on how hiking impacts the way I lead. Here’s what I’ve learned:

1. 🧭 Gain perspective.
Hiking gives me a deeper understanding of my surroundings — and my place in the world. It reminds me to zoom out before making key business decisions.
2. 🥾 Focus on the process,
Hiking requires attentiveness to every step. Similarly, in business, the goal (KPI) matters — but how you get there matters just as much.
3. 🗺️ Embrace nonlinear paths.
There’s never just one way to reach the summit. Whether on a trail or in business, there are always multiple routes — it’s about time, creativity and resources (human and financial).
4. 💪 Build resilience.
Staying committed despite weather, fatigue or setbacks builds grit. There’s nothing more demanding — mentally and physically — than leading a team and running a business.
5. 🌊 Learn from the terrain.
Sometimes the best move is counterintuitive, such as walking through a stream instead of scrambling over rocks. In business, small shifts often unlock big breakthroughs.
6. 🌱 Commit to stewardship.
Connecting with nature makes me want to protect it. I believe business can be both profitable and purposeful — it all comes down to values and intention.
7. 🌀 Expand your thinking.
Hiking creates space to go deep — mentally and emotionally. It freezes time and helps me shift perspectives and see challenges in new ways.
8. 💡 Spark creativity.
On the trail, my mind opens up. I make unexpected connections that lead to innovative thinking at work.
9. 🔍 Be curious.
I often reflect on how ancient cultures like the Incas adapted and innovated. It inspires me to ask better questions and think more deeply about modern challenges.
10. 🛤️ Break from the traditional path.
The unbeaten route leads to discovery. I’ve never followed a traditional career path, and that freedom has empowered me to innovate, inspire and grow.
11. 🌬️ Stay humble.
No matter how prepared you are, nature humbles you. You can resist the elements or move through them. I choose the latter.
12. 🔋 Refuel intentionally.
Hiking forces me to pause, hydrate and recharge. Without that, I can’t keep going. In business, recovery isn’t a luxury — it’s a leadership strategy.

Nature has taught me a lot. I love that it’s always changing — unpredictable, refreshing, expansive and challenging. It freezes time and, most importantly, reminds me that growth is always possible. What lessons have your outdoor adventures taught you about leadership?

Emily Culp is the chief brand and strategy officer at BodyHealth and a board member for Stio, Mizzen+Main, and Cordial.

This article was originally published on Culp’s LinkedIn page and has been republished with permission.