06/11/2025
“I don't usually do this kind of thing." - Cue a photo of me doing this kind of thing. My lessons from the Summit: Climbing Mont Blanc
As a Youth Counsellor and ICF Coach, I often hear about the inspiring journeys that happen within — the quiet, unseen climbs of courage, reflection, and change that unfold for a teen or parent inside the walls of a counselling or coaching space. Yet this summer, I was reminded of the contrast between these internal journeys and the ones that are more visible to others — the mountains, milestones, and adventures people can witness. Both are equally valuable and undeniably interconnected.
So what will I share with you and the teens I work with?
The Power of Saying No
True strength isn’t always in pushing forward. Sometimes it’s in pausing — recognising when something isn’t right and choosing a different path. Two of my teammates made that decision with clarity and courage. There’s deep leadership in knowing when to stop, slow down or change.
The Power of Being Grounded
At 4,800 meters, self trust and grounding yourself becomes everything. Breath, balance, and body awareness become anchors. In the noise of challenge, stillness is strength. The further you are away from your comfort zone and the valley floor, the greater your grounding skills need to be.
The Power of Asking for Help
There was a moment when I didn’t have the oxygen or strength to move alone. Asking my mountain guide to help lift me was an act of trust — not weakness. Self Leadership often means allowing others to support you, so you can move forward together. Befriend your fear along with your bond to others.
The Power of Not Taking Things Personally
The weather that day was wild — relentless 60mph winds. But it wasn’t against me. Sometimes conditions are simply what they are. Our task is not to resist them, but to remain true to our purpose despite them.
The Power of Your Own Timing
After 18 years of living in Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, I could find many of my peers who have already climbed it. But this year, it meant something to me. There’s no medal at the summit, no finish line — only quiet gratitude and perhaps a patch of yellow snow to remind you to stay humble.
For the teens I work with, this journey is a mirror. Growth doesn’t come from comparison, but from connection — to self, to purpose, and to the rhythm of your own timing: “Every ceiling once reached becomes a new floor” keep looking up…
🌈 I dedicate this post to anyone climbing their inside or outside mountain.
