Jumping off of the ladder and onto the vine is no easy task, and I think the latter is better than the ladder. Why a vine?

Well, Barabara Krumsiek, the CEO of the Calvert Group astutely observed for a NY Times article “that the whole career ladder concept is a very disruptive concept because what does it suggest?” Well, “you can’t get past the person ahead of you unless you push them off the ladder.”

Recognizing the dilemma associated with the old metaphor of the ladder, I’ve chosen to go with the concept of the vine to guide growth, a flowering vine called Traveler’s Joy. The species Clematis brachiata exhibits a number of characteristics that capture how I see it, and I hope that it offers a different metaphor for work and life.

I think the vine provides a better way of conceptualizing how we can each thrive by building on resiliency and diversity, rather than static, linear conceptions of the way to the “top”. In fact, there is no top, only a vast array of directions that lead us to our full growth and potential, like Traveler’s Joy. The heights we can reach are limitless.

All life is a unique part of the greater intricate web of life. We live within a system of functionally interdependent parts – like a vine. Like vines, we use energy to achieve maximum results, seeking efficiency so that we can flourish elegantly. So, how is it that we flourish?

Each of us are like an individual branch of Traveler’s Joy, we depend on the strength of the other to thrive. By creating paths connected to our core values, we’re able to continuously remain a part of the Traveler’s Joy. Whether we’re developing our individual knowledge, skills and abilities, or supporting the work of a visionary, we are constantly supporting, growing, and promoting the conditions that allow us, and our clients, to flourish.

I wholeheartedly believe that it’s important to have a strong support system, a stable structure, deep roots, and the freedom and the space to explore the boundaries that allow people to flourish. In the end, it’s not about how each branch gets to where it goes, it’s about going where one needs to be, while growing in a mutually beneficial manner, sustaining the Traveler’s Joy.

So, what exactly is the Traveler’s Joy to me. Well, I envision a more just and sustainable future flourishing with mindful leaders. I envision strengthening resiliency by encouraging personal and professional exploration and growth. So, if you’re looking for a new metaphor, why not jump off of the ladder for the Traveler’s Joy and start growing in innumerable new ways.