Sliders On The Summit

It’s one of those images that stays with you. Someone trekking up a Lake District fell in a pair of sliders.

Now I’ll admit it, my first reaction was a bit judgmental with a bit of internal eye-rolling and headshaking, followed by concern for a potential injury. It’s hardly the footwear of choice for uneven, rocky paths and steep inclines.

But then something shifted in me.

There they were, out in the fresh air, tackling a fell, clearly determined to enjoy the experience despite not having “all the gear”.

And part of me started to admire it. Actually, a big part. The frown turned into a smile and a different kind of shaking the head – the “good on ‘em” type.

Because how often do we wait until everything is just right before we take that next step?

• When I’ve got the perfect plan…
• Once I feel 100% confident…
• After I’ve done one more qualification / prepared the ideal slide deck / got the best kit…

We tell ourselves that success demands readiness. But progress? That just needs motion.

Trying Before You’re Ready

That walker in sliders likely knew they weren’t optimally equipped. But they still showed up. They gave it a go. And who knows? Maybe they discovered something new. Maybe it sparked a love of hiking that leads to an investment in some boots.

And it’s the same in leadership, at work, in business.

You don’t need every answer, every ounce of confidence, or the perfect conditions to try something different. To ask for support. To take the first step towards something more fulfilling.

Sometimes it’s about experimenting. Testing the water before you invest everything. Giving yourself permission to be a beginner, or to move forward even when it’s messy and imperfect.

The Risk of Waiting

In my coaching work, I might hear things like:

• “I know what I want to do, but it’s not the right time.”
• “I need to figure it all out before I take action.”
• “I don’t want to do it unless I can do it properly.”

In my own business, I’ll tell myself stories like:

• “I need to have all the tech set up before I do that.”
• “I need to have that service fully figured out before I start promoting it.”
• “I can’t make this decision until I have all that information.”

And you know what, sometimes our judgement is spot on, and we do need to hold for good reason. But not always …

You see, perfection can be a powerful procrastination tool. And the longer we wait for perfect, the further away it gets.

Because perfect doesn’t exist.

But progress – especially purposeful, values-led progress – is always within reach.

Small steps still lead to great places, right?

 

A Trusty Companion Makes All the Difference

Here’s the other thing. That walker in sliders – they weren’t on their own. They had someone with them; by their side for the duration (and hopefully the slippery descent down some shale).

And that makes all the difference.

Whether you’re navigating a tricky career transition, stepping into a bigger leadership role, or figuring out what your legacy looks like – having someone trusted and credible in your corner matters.

Someone who gets you, your world, cuts through the noise, and helps you move ahead with clarity and courage.

Not necessarily to give you all the answers. But to make sure you keep walking, even in less-than-perfect footwear!

So here’s a prompt for you …

Where in your life are you waiting for the perfect boots before you start climbing?

What would happen if you just laced up (or slipped on!) and took that first step?

You might be more ready than you think.

 

Interested in Coaching?

Are you curious about how we could help you make some of that ‘progress without perfection’, how you could enjoy the benefits of someone by your side?

Every day I help leaders cut through complexity, create momentum, delivery extraordinary results, and build a legacy they feel proud of – it’s an absolute privilege and I love my work.

Find out if we might be a good match here, explore working with me here, and if you’re ready to talk about working together, book a call.