Who Owns the Hill of Opportunity?
Opportunity belongs to those bold enough to take action and seize it.
Adam Danyal & Julia Danyal
September 13, 2023
WRITTEN BY: ADAM DANYAL
The battlefield was quiet as we surveyed the hill ahead. This high ground offered a strategic advantage, but seizing it would require a dangerous uphill charge. As the captain assessed the risks, a young private stepped forward and asked, “Sir, who owns that hill?”
The captain replied simply, “No one. The enemy hasn’t claimed it yet.” The private tightened his helmet and said, “Then I’m taking it.” Without awaiting orders, he raced up the hill alone into enemy fire. We watched in awe as he overcame fierce resistance to plant our flag. The private had realized a basic truth - opportunity belongs to the bold.
Like that soldier, we often face hills of opportunity in our lives and careers. The competitive terrain grows steeper each year, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. But waiting for the perfect time to make your move can mean missing your window. Markets shift, new competitors arise, and openings close. Fortune favors the bold.
So ask yourself daily: What’s my hill of opportunity? That initiative you’ve delayed, the partnership not yet broached, the tough conversation you’ve put off - what’s stopping you from staking that high ground? Opportunity arises when preparation meets courage.
With a focused strategy and a willingness to take risks, you can seize the advantage. Don’t wait for the path to be cleared or conditions to be perfect. Opportunity belongs to those who act. Share your vision to inspire others to follow.
Yes, uphill charges require grit. But the view from the summit is worth it. Plant your flag on that hill before anyone else. The territory you gain - in knowledge, experience, and relationships - will be yours to fortify and defend. New vistas will open once you reach the top.
Opportunity rarely knocks twice. We admire leaders like that nameless private who saw their chance and took it. Be ready to spot your moment this week. Then charge ahead with purpose and passion. Seize your hill.
The day is yours for the taking. Who owns that hill of opportunity? The answer lies within you.
From our Leadership Bookshelf:
WRITTEN BY: JULIA DANYAL
“Courage Goes to Work: How to Build Backbones, Boost Performance, and Get Results” by Bill Treasurer offers practical insights on demonstrating courageous leadership to capitalize on opportunities.
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Key takeaways:
Courage isn't the absence of fear - it's taking action despite fear. Build this capacity like any skill through practice.
View challenges as opportunities for growth. Leaning into difficulties makes you braver and more confident.
Speak up respectfully, not recklessly. Question assumptions and policies judiciously to drive progress.
Take smart risks. Thoughtfully examine potential downsides rather than automatically avoiding action.
Make courage a team sport. Promote psychological safety where others feel comfortable voicing concerns.
Courage enables leaders to take the necessary risks and decisive action to seize competitive opportunities. By practicing courage and encouraging bold thinking across your team, you can collectively charge ahead with confidence. Opportunity belongs to the bold - you've got this.