By – Mr. Prasad Shejale, Founder & CEO, LS Digital
Life lessons and self-realisations that I and my wife learned during this trek, was rediscovering ourselves. While the mountains taught us about life, the teachings of Buddha became our guide.
“Tashi Delek”, I heard these words echo through the pristine air of Tsum Valley, a Tibetan greeting that wishes good fortune. Each year, my wife and I embark on a pilgrimage of sorts to Nepal for high-altitude trekking. This time, our journey took us through the mystical Tsum Valley and the challenging terrain of Manaslu Circuit, where we discovered not only the beauty of nature but also profound insights into life, corporate culture, and Buddhism. The following article is about our experiences and how they all resonate with our corporate world.
A Trek of Physical and Spiritual Challenge:
Our trek was not merely about conquering peaks; it was about challenging ourselves physically and spiritually. As we navigated the rugged Himalayan terrain, we found ourselves immersed in a world where the boundaries between the physical and spiritual blurred. Each step we took was a step closer to self-discovery.
A true inspiration can come from words spoken from the heart, which strengthens the soul and overcomes all physical barriers and challenges.
Meeting Humanity in the Himalayas:
One of the most remarkable aspects of our trek was the people we met along the way. In small villages nestled amidst the mountains, we encountered individuals from different corners of the globe, all united by a common goal: to experience the raw beauty of nature and challenge themselves. Over meals shared in rustic teahouses, we exchanged stories, laughter, and companionship, forging bonds that transcended language and culture.
Our journey through Tsum Valley and Manaslu Circuit introduced us to a diverse array of individuals, each had their own unique stories and motivations. One of the most inspiring encounters we had was with a group of three French couples, all around 65 years old, who were trekking through Tsum Valley. Their determination to challenge their age and complete the trek was awe-inspiring. Despite their age, they persevered, serving as a reminder that age is no barrier to adventure and exploration.
We also had the pleasure of meeting a young Russian couple who were determined to push their boundaries. At one point, they decided to attempt to cover two days’ worth of trekking in just a day. While the task seemed impossible, their determination knew no bounds, and they managed to achieve their goal. Their resilience and determination were truly inspiring.
Another memorable encounter was with a British woman, aged 50, who was trekking through Larke Pass with her 26-year-old son. Their journey was not just about exploring the Himalayas; it was also about cementing their mother-son relationship. As they traversed the challenging terrain together, they strengthened their bond and created memories that would last a lifetime.
We also crossed paths with a young Spanish couple who were on a three-month trekking spree through Nepal. For them, the journey was about more than just exploring the beauty of the Himalayas; it was about understanding each other before committing to spending the rest of their lives together. Their journey was a testament to the transformative power of travel and the bonds it can create.
These stories, and many others like them, served as a powerful reminder that our journey through the Himalayas was not just a physical one; it was a journey of life with purpose. Each person we met along the way had their own reasons for embarking on this adventure, but we were all united by a common goal: to challenge ourselves, to explore new horizons, and to discover the beauty of the world around us. And in the process, we discovered that the greatest adventures are the ones we share with others.
Bridging the Gap Between Cultures and Corporations:
As we trekked through the Himalayas, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between our journey and my experiences in the corporate world. In both situations, there is a need for goal-setting, teamwork, and resilience. Just as we relied on each other to navigate treacherous trails, so too do we rely on our colleagues in the corporate world to triumph over challenges and achieve success.
Lessons from Buddhism:
One of the most profound aspects of our trek was the opportunity to immerse ourselves in Buddhist culture. Along the way, we encountered monasteries nestled in remote mountain valleys, their colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze. We learned about the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism:
- The Truth of Suffering (Dukkha): In both trekking and corporate life, there are moments of hardship and challenge. It is how we respond to these challenges that define us.
- The Truth of the Cause of Suffering (Samudāya): Just as we must identify the root causes of our suffering on the trek, so too must we identify the root causes of challenges in the corporate world.
- The Truth of the End of Suffering (Nirodha): By acknowledging our suffering and its causes, we can work towards finding a resolution, both on the trek and in our professional lives.
- The Truth of the Path that Frees us from Suffering (Magga): Both in trekking and in the corporate world, there is a path to success. It requires dedication, hard work, and a willingness to confront challenges head-on.
The Universal Lessons of the Mountains:
In the lap of nature, designations and titles which corporate world gives us, lose their significance. Nature treats everyone the same and at par. Over lunch in a small village, surrounded by people from different nationalities, one begins to realize that human values are universal. Whether it’s about living truthfully or the innate human tendency to empathize and help each other, these remain unchanged.
The Art of Being Present:
One of the most valuable lessons I learned on our trek was the importance of being present. As a monk, we met along the way, reminded us that true happiness comes from being fully present in the moment. This is as true in the corporate world as it is on the trek. Whether we are navigating treacherous mountain trails or navigating the complexities of corporate life, being present allows us to fully experience and appreciate the journey.
Bridging the Gap Between Buddhism, Trekking, and Corporate Life:
As we trekked through the Himalayas, I couldn’t help but draw parallels between our journey and my experiences in the corporate world:
- Goal Setting and Planning: Both high-altitude trekking and corporate life require meticulous planning and goal setting to achieve desired outcomes.
- Resilience and Adaptability: High-altitude trekking demands resilience and adaptability in challenging environments, similar to the ever-changing dynamics of corporate life.
- Teamwork and Collaboration: Trekking in high altitudes often involves teamwork and collaboration, just like corporate projects that require team efforts to succeed.
- Leadership and Decision-Making: Trek leaders make critical decisions that impact the entire team, similar to the leadership and decision-making responsibilities in corporate settings.
- Risk Management: Managing risks and uncertainties is crucial in both high-altitude trekking and corporate projects to ensure the safety and success of the team.
- Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential in both environments to convey ideas, address challenges, and ensure smooth coordination among team members.
- Problem-solving Abilities: Trekking in high altitudes often presents unexpected challenges, requiring quick and effective problem-solving skills, which are also valuable in corporate environments.
- Stress Management: Dealing with the physical and mental stress of high-altitude trekking can teach valuable stress management techniques that are applicable in corporate life.
- Respect for Diversity: High-altitude treks often involve interacting with people from diverse backgrounds, teaching respect for diversity, a valuable trait in corporate settings.
- Embracing Change: Trekking in high altitudes teaches individuals to embrace change and uncertainty, preparing them to navigate the rapidly changing corporate landscape.
- Focus and Determination: Both high-altitude trekking and corporate life require focus, determination, and perseverance to overcome challenges and achieve goals.
- Self-discipline and Time Management: Trekking in high altitudes demands self-discipline and effective time management, skills that are equally crucial in managing tasks and projects in corporate life.
- Celebrating Achievements: Like reaching the summit of a high-altitude peak, achieving corporate milestones should be celebrated, fostering a positive and motivated work environment.
- Continuous Learning and Improvement: High-altitude trekking encourages continuous learning and improvement, fostering a growth mindset that is essential for success in corporate life.
- Work-Life Balance: Balancing the physical demands of high-altitude trekking with personal well-being teaches the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance in corporate settings.
Conclusion: Rediscovering Ourselves Through the Mountains
Our trek through Tsum Valley and the Manaslu Circuit was a journey of profound self-discovery and learning. Beyond the physical challenges, we found lessons in resilience, teamwork, and presence that resonated deeply with our corporate lives.
The mountains taught us perseverance and adaptability, essential in both trekking and the corporate world. The teachings of Buddha provided a framework for understanding and overcoming challenges. Meeting diverse individuals along the way highlighted the universal drive to push boundaries and forge connections.
In both trekking and corporate life, success depends on planning, communication, and embracing change. The parallels between these experiences underscore the importance of goal-setting, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Ultimately, our journey reminded us that true fulfillment lies in being present, whether navigating the Himalayas or the complexities of the workplace. The lessons we carry from the mountains and Buddhism will guide us in personal and professional growth, fostering a deeper appreciation for each moment.
