Lead Like a Sherpa
Leadership is often compared to a journey, one filled with challenges, obstacles, and moments of triumph. But perhaps one of the most fitting comparisons is between great leaders and the sherpas of the Himalayas. These elite guides don’t just climb mountains—they lead others safely through some of the most treacherous conditions on Earth, ensuring their followers reach the summit successfully. The best leaders in any field do the same. They chart the course, shoulder the weight of responsibility, and make decisions that can mean the difference between failure and success. So how can we learn to lead like a sherpa? Let me share a story.
I met a most interesting gentleman during a recent international conference in Orlando. His name — Vaibhav Nahata. Vaibhav immediately became my first Nepali (Nepal native) friend. Our hallway encounter yielded an animated conversation during which “Happy” (his preferred nickname) enthusiastically answered my questions concerning his country and culture. In parting company, Happy gifted me a traditional Nepali head covering, called a “dhaka topi” (pictured here).
Success At High Levels
While talking with Happy, the subject of Mt. Everest, international climbing expeditions, and high-altitude mountaineering arose. Happy is not a climber. Nor am I. Still, I’m forever fascinated by those able to do what most can’t (or won’t) and do “it” (whatever “it” may be) at an exceptionally high level. In the case of high-altitude climbing, that would unquestionably be sherpas.
In case you don’t know, sherpas were originally a nomadic Tibetan ethnic group. Over the centuries, they established a rich culture and tradition rooted in superior climbing while developing an exceptional capability for extreme physical endurance at high altitudes. Today, sherpas are world-renowned as the premier guides and porters for high-altitude mountaineering, most notably Mt. Everest ascents. Each year, hundreds of paying customers literally put their lives in the hands of these sherpas as they follow them in the quest to realize their individual goals and dreams.
The Sherpa Job Description
Since 1953, when the mountain was opened to foreign adventurers, through December 2024, there have been 12,884 successful Mt. Everest ascents. Of those, more than half (6,590) have been accomplished by sherpas leading paying customers (6,294) to the top. One particularly high-performing sherpa, 55-year-old Kami Rita Sherpa, has successfully made the climb more than any other human being. He’s conquered Everest thirty times (as of December 2024). Once a year since 1994. One climbing season, he did it—TWICE!
The accomplishments of these sherpas are even more remarkable when considering their daunting job description. Sherpas are expected to carry the load (equipment, food, supplies, oxygen) for their followers, set up the camps, cook and do meal prep, identify upcoming dangerous areas, determine the safest routes going forward, set the required ropes and ladders, and when necessary, lead rescue operations when things don’t go as planned. Oh yeah, and they do all these things on a mountain that reaches 29,032 feet above sea level.
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The Leadership Connection
You may be wondering: “So Phil, this is all interesting enough, but what’s your leadership point?”
My point is this: If you step back and take a long look, the roles and responsibilities of the sherpa guides reflect the roles and responsibilities of the best leaders I work with daily. Consider these 5 lessons every leader can use.
- Sherpas navigate their paths daily and intentionally, working to find the best way through ever-changing situations, even occasional perilous conditions. The best leaders do the same.
- High-level decision-making is a must for sherpas, as they often have little time to solve developing problems. Great leaders must also be decisive under pressure.
- Operating at a high level in the rarified air above what most can achieve is second nature to sherpas. Likewise, strong leaders must perform in demanding environments without becoming light-headed or big-headed.
- Physical fatigue and mental stress are constant challenges for sherpas, yet they push through to fulfill their duties. Effective leaders must also persist through exhaustion and setbacks.
- Accepting responsibility and stepping forward when it matters most defines a sherpa’s role. The best leaders do the same, taking ownership of their teams and their missions.
At Van Hooser Leadership, we always say leadership has been, is, and always will be about offering service to those who are following and taking action to be the best we can be. Here are 5 more powerful leadership lessons from actual sherpas.
Your Leadership Journey
Whether you’re leading a company, a team, or even just yourself, your leadership journey is filled with obstacles and opportunities. Like the sherpas, your role is to guide, support, and make the tough calls that enable others to reach new heights. So ask yourself…
- What kind of leader do you want to be?
- Are you willing to shoulder the responsibility, push through adversity, and serve those who follow you?
The world needs more leadership sherpas. Step up, take action, and lead with intention. Your team—and your legacy—are counting on you.
