Get The Sickness!

Clear thinking in mountain air

January is predictably a slow month for consulting. Clients tend to hunker down during the holidays and spend most of January figuring out where they want to go next. I took advantage of this situation by doing some skiing - 3 days in Mammoth and then a day trip to Big Bear with my kids.

There is something special about being in the mountain air. It is clear and the exertion of skiing pumps lots of blood through your brain. You also have 10 minute intervals sitting on a chairlift. And the view ain't bad either. I figure that I have spent about 90 days at Mammoth over the years, and probably another 90 days at assorted ski resorts over the 29 seasons that I have been skiing. I would hope that I could spend another 6-12 months in the mountains before I die.

For me, being in the mountains is a stimulating experience. For others, it may be the desert, the shore or the forests. What is clear is that the average person likely does not prefer to be in traffic, a windowless work space, dirty or rundown surroundings. Companies that figure out how to create more stimulating work places are likely to retain their employees and motivate them to be productive. There is likely a lesson here and an opportunity for companies to turn their staffs into competitive advantages. Look for more companies relocating to places where employees want to live.

posted by Michael Sick @ 6:25 PM