Why would you believe that hikes can help us grow as a manager or a leader?

Great question! It might seem unusual at first, but there's a growing body of evidence suggesting that spending time in nature can significantly enhance leadership skills. Here's why:

• Nature as a mirror: Disconnecting from the daily grind and immersing yourself in nature allows for introspection and self-reflection. You can step back from your usual routines and gain a fresh perspective on your leadership style, strengths, and areas for growth.
• Stress reduction and well-being: Nature has a calming effect, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity. This is crucial for leaders who often face high-pressure situations. A relaxed and focused mind leads to better decision-making and improved leadership effectiveness.
• Building connections: Shared experiences in nature foster strong bonds and deeper connections. Agile Strides leverages this by creating opportunities for meaningful interactions and peer learning, enhancing communication and collaboration skills.

A study by Van Droffelaar and Jacobs (2017) highlighted in the "Foundation for Natural Leadership" research paper supports these claims. Their findings indicate that wilderness experiences can contribute to the development of authentic leadership qualities, such as self-awareness, empathy, and the ability to connect with others on a deeper level.

In essence, hiking leverages the power of nature to create a unique and transformative leadership development experience. By combining the tranquility of the outdoors with practical leadership techniques, I help you tap into your inner potential and become a more effective and authentic leader.

What specific leadership frameworks or models will be covered?

During this program we draw inspiration from various leadership frameworks and models. Here are some of the key concepts we'll explore:

• Situational Leadership: This model emphasizes the importance of adapting your leadership style to the needs of individual team members and the specific situation. We'll explore how to effectively diagnose your team's development level and adjust your approach accordingly.
• Management 3.0: This framework provides a modern and holistic approach to leadership, focusing on empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and creating a thriving work environment. We'll delve into specific practices like Delegation Poker, Moving Motivators, and Kudo Cards to help you build trust, enhance communication, and motivate your team.
• Transformational Leadership: This style focuses on inspiring and motivating your team to achieve shared goals and a common vision. We'll discuss creating a compelling vision, communicating it effectively, and empowering your team to contribute their best work.
• Agile and Lean Principles: We'll incorporate principles from Agile and Lean methodologies, such as continuous improvement, iterative development, and customer focus, to help you create a more adaptable and responsive team.

In addition to these frameworks, we'll also draw upon your extensive experience and insights from your leadership journey, including your passion for nature and your learnings from completing long-distance hikes.

The specific frameworks and models covered will also be tailored to the participants' needs and interests, ensuring a relevant and impactful learning experience for everyone.

What kind of reflective activities can I expect during the hike?

The hike isn't just about physical exercise; it's about mental exploration and self-discovery. We'll incorporate various reflective activities to help you connect with nature and gain deeper insights into your leadership style. Here are a few examples:

• Mindful Moments: We'll pause at scenic points along the trail to allow you to appreciate the present moment and clear your mind.Journaling Prompts: You'll have time and will be encouraged to introspect and reflect on your leadership journey.
• Nature-Based Exercises: We'll have conversations that utilize the natural environment to spark creativity and problem-solving, such as identifying metaphors for leadership challenges in the surrounding landscape.
• Group Sharing and Discussion: You'll have opportunities to share your reflections and insights with fellow participants, fostering a sense of community and peer learning.
• Solo Time for Contemplation: We'll build in periods of quiet reflection, allowing you to process your thoughts and connect with your inner self.

These activities are designed to help you:

• Gain self-awareness: Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and default leadership patterns.
• Challenge your assumptions: Question your beliefs about leadership and explore new perspectives.
• Connect with your values: Reflect on what truly matters to you as a leader and how your actions align with your values.
• Set intentions for growth: Identify areas for development and plan to become a more effective and authentic leader.

The reflective activities are a core part of the Leadership Hike experience, providing a unique opportunity to gain deeper insights into your leadership style and create a personalized roadmap for growth.

How is the workshop content tailored to individual needs?

I believe in a personalized approach to leadership development. Each manager and leader has unique challenges, goals, and learning styles. That's why I take the following steps to tailor the workshop content to your individual needs:

• Personalized Welcome Session: Before the workshop, you'll have a one-on-one session with me, an experienced Agile coach and leadership facilitator. This session allows me to understand your specific challenges, aspirations, and desired outcomes for the program.
• Needs Assessment: During the welcome session, we'll delve into your current leadership role, your team dynamics, and the specific areas where you'd like to grow and develop. This information helps us identify the workshop's most relevant topics and activities.
• Tailored Content: Based on the needs assessment, I'll customize the workshop content to address your specific challenges and interests. This might include focusing on particular leadership skills, exploring relevant case studies, or incorporating specific, for example, Management 3.0 practices or other tools that resonate with your needs.
• Flexible and Interactive Format: The workshop is designed to be interactive and adaptable, allowing for open discussions, group activities, and personalized feedback. This ensures that you get the most out of the learning experience and can apply the insights directly to your own leadership context.
• Ongoing Support: Beyond the workshop, you can continue your leadership development journey with individual coaching sessions or follow-up workshops. This ensures you receive ongoing support and guidance as you implement your learning and navigate future challenges.

My goal is to create a relevant and engaging learning experience that empowers you to make a real difference in your leadership role and within your organization.

What are the learning outcomes of the program?

I keep our groups small and intimate, with a maximum of six participants on each hike.

Here's why:

• Deeper connections: Smaller groups foster stronger bonds and allow for more meaningful participant interactions. You'll have ample opportunity to share your experiences, learn from each other, and build lasting relationships.
• Personalized attention: With a smaller group, I can provide more individualized attention and support, ensuring that everyone feels seen and heard.
• Enhanced learning: Smaller groups create a safe, comfortable space for open dialogue and vulnerability, leading to richer discussions and deeper insights.
• Greater impact: A smaller, more focused group allows for a more impactful and transformative experience, maximizing personal and professional growth.

I believe that this intimate setting creates the ideal environment for self-reflection, collaboration, and leadership development.

What are the dates and times of the program?

Check out the schedule on the website to find the next leadership hike.

Will it be in English or Dutch?

It depends, and I will consider your preference. The website and materials are in English; I assume most people can read English.

However, I understand some people prefer a group with only Dutch—or English-speaking people. When you are interested, I will also discuss your language preference to ensure you have the experience you want!

Are there any prerequisites for participating?

None at all! I welcome anyone interested in developing their leadership skills and a desire to learn and grow through a unique, nature-based experience.

Whether you're a seasoned manager or just starting your leadership journey, this program is designed to be accessible and beneficial to all.

The most important prerequisite is an open mind and a willingness to embrace new experiences and perspectives.

Is there an option to join a waiting list if a program is full?

Absolutely! I understand that our small group sizes can fill up quickly, and I also need to take language preference into account. If a program you're interested in is fully booked, you can definitely join the waiting list.

Here's how: Please contact me and express your interest in the program, indicating that you'd like to be added to the waiting list. I'll keep you updated on any openings or upcoming program dates that might be suitable.

Joining the waiting list also helps us gauge interest and plan future programs accordingly.

I appreciate your flexibility and look forward to welcoming you on a leadership hike adventure soon!

What are the costs?

Investing in your leadership development is an investment in your team's success and your organization's future.

The Leadership Hike program is designed to provide a high-impact, personalized experience that delivers lasting value.

The program fee includes:

• Personalized Welcome Session (2 hours);
• Tailored One-Day Workshop;
• The Hike;
• Consolidation Workshop;
• Materials and resources.

Please schedule a free consultation to discuss the specific investment that fits your needs and explore available options. I'm happy to answer any questions and tailor a program that aligns with your budget and goals.

How experience do I need to be as hiker?

No prior hiking experience is required. This program is designed to be accessible to individuals of all levels, from seasoned hikers to those who are new to the trails.

A moderate level of fitness is recommended. Participants should be comfortable walking for several hours with breaks on generally flat terrain.

Enthusiasm and a positive attitude are essential! A willingness to embrace the outdoors, connect with nature, and engage in self-reflection is key to getting the most out of the experience.

Do I need (expensive) hiking gear?

Nope, you don't need to break the bank to gear up for this adventure! Comfortable and functional clothing and equipment are key. Here's a quick rundown:

• Footwear: Good hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes are essential. Look for category A or A/B hiking footwear designed for well-maintained trails like the ones we'll explore. Make sure your shoes are well broken in to avoid blisters.
• Backpack: A small daypack (around 20-30 liters) is perfect for carrying your essentials – water, snacks, a rain jacket, and an extra layer.
• Clothing: Dress in layers to adapt to changing weather conditions. This might include:
  • Moisture-wicking base layer to keep you dry and comfortable
  • Insulating mid-layer for warmth (fleece or a light sweater)
  • Waterproof and windproof outer layer (jacket and pants)
  • A hat to protect you from the sun or rain

During the personalized welcome session, tailored to the specific conditions of your hike, I'll provide more detailed information about recommended gear and clothing.

Where will we hike?

Escape the ordinary and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Netherlands! I have several stunning locations in mind, each offering a unique landscape and the opportunity to disconnect from the everyday.

Possible destinations include:

• Deelerwoud: Discover the hidden gem nestled between De Hoge Veluwe National Park and the Veluwezoom. This relatively quiet area boasts breathtaking scenery, diverse trails, and a tranquil atmosphere perfect for reflection and connection.
• South Limburg: Explore the hilly landscapes of South Limburg, which is known for its charming villages, vineyards, and picturesque views. We might hike the Dutch Mountain Trail sections, challenging ourselves with invigorating climbs and rewarding vistas. And, of course, no trip to Limburg is complete without savoring a delicious slice of traditional vlaai!

My criteria for selecting a location:

• Natural beauty: I seek out areas with stunning scenery and diverse landscapes to inspire and rejuvenate.
• Tranquility and disconnection: I prioritize locations that offer a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing you to immerse yourself in the experience fully.
• Accessibility: I choose locations that are reasonably accessible for participants, minimizing travel time and maximizing your time on the trail.

How many kilometers will we walk?

Here's what you can expect:

• Moderate pace: We'll maintain an average speed of around 4 km per hour, which will allow us to walk comfortably and leave plenty of time to soak in the scenery.
• Built-in breaks: We'll take regular breaks to rest, refuel, and engage in discussions, ensuring you don't feel overwhelmed by the distance.
• Total hike time: Expect to spend 5 to 6 hours on the trail, giving you ample time to connect with nature, reflect on your leadership journey, and bond with fellow participants.

At this moment, the hikes are one day, as I am starting up the program. The goal is to offer multiple-day hikes and also hikes in other countries like Scotland.

What is the difference between hiking and walking?

That's a great question! While the terms are often used interchangeably, there are a few key distinctions that set hiking apart from a casual stroll.

Terrain: Hikes typically involve trails, paths, or routes that are less maintained and may include uneven terrain, hills, or even mountains. Walking, on the other hand, is usually done on paved surfaces or well-maintained paths.

Purpose: Hiking is often seen as a more purposeful activity, focusing on exploring nature, challenging oneself physically, and enjoying the outdoors. Walking can also be done for enjoyment, but it may also be for transportation or exercise.

Preparation: Hiking often requires preparation, such as planning a route, packing essentials like water and snacks, and wearing appropriate footwear and clothing. Walking typically requires less preparation.

Duration: Hikes are longer than walks, often lasting several hours or even days.

For Leadership Hikes, think of it this way: We'll be venturing beyond the pavement, immersing ourselves in nature, and engaging in thoughtful discussions as we walk. It's a journey of exploration, both physically and mentally, that sets it apart from a typical walk in the park.