A Leadership Lesson

Written by Albert Vega

Albert Vega, director of environmental services at Garden Spot Village, wrote the following after completing the last leg of a 2,000 cycling journey in October 2024. Albert completed the challenge with his fellow leaders of LifeCycles.

I’ve had the privilege of embarking on long-distance cycling adventures across the country. My most recent milestone was completing the East Coast route. Previously, in 2021, I rode along the Northern states from Oregon to Maine, and just last week, I finished the East Coast from Lubec, ME, to Key West, FL. These journeys have taught me a great deal, and I wanted to share a few lessons that also resonate with our work. I hope they inspire you to keep learning and pushing forward, even when the road feels challenging. For example, despite having a heart condition, I continue to ride—and it’s this perseverance that I want to share with you.

Leadership, much like long-distance cycling, is a journey filled with planning, perseverance, and unexpected challenges. Over the years, my cycling adventures have become powerful teachers, shaping my approach to leadership. Each mile on the road has offered lessons in resilience, teamwork and the rewards that come from stepping outside comfort zones. Below are a few of these insights that have guided my approach to tackling projects and navigating obstacles at work.

Leadership Lessons Learned from Long-Distance Cycling

1. The Importance of Detailed Planning. Successful journeys start with thorough preparation, similar to any well-executed project. Every detail, from route mapping to resource allocation, contributes to the smooth execution of both rides and work initiatives.
2. Starting Even When You Don’t Feel Ready. Leadership often requires taking the first step despite uncertainties. Beginning the ride—even with doubts—reinforces the value of commitment and forward momentum in any project.
3. Building Resilience Through Setbacks. Unexpected challenges, like rough roads and heavy traffic, or a big mountain to climb, can make you want to turn back. But pushing through these moments strengthens resilience and perseverance—qualities essential for overcoming obstacles in leadership.
4. Celebrating Achievements. Reaching the finish line brings a sense of accomplishment, much like completing a project. Reflecting on what you’ve achieved and the lessons learned fosters personal and professional growth.
5. Recognizing the Power of Team Support. Embracing success with those who supported you along the way highlights the importance of teamwork and shared goals. Leadership is as much about people as it is about plans and projects.

Through long-distance cycling, I’ve learned that the rewards of any journey aren’t just in the destination but in the growth and connections made along the way. Leadership, like cycling, requires endurance, adaptability, and support from those around us. I hope these insights inspire you to approach challenges with resilience and to celebrate each milestone, big or small, with the people who make the journey meaningful. Together, we can navigate any road ahead.