Are You a Mountain Man or a Wagon Train Man?

Lately I've been mulling over the types of business owners and CEOs I encounter in my work at Acumen. I'm talking about the Mountain Man and the Wagon Train Man. Both of these leadership styles have their merits and challenges, but understanding where you fall can make a huge difference in how you grow your business, optimize operations, and enrich your company’s story. So, let’s dive in.

The Mountain Man

Picture this: a lone figure exploring the wilderness, hunting and trapping for his daily meals, equipped with only his wits and survival skills. That’s the Mountain Man CEO. Here are some key traits:

• Self-Reliance: Mountain Men thrive on independence and trust their instincts as they navigate the business landscape.
• Adaptability: They’re quick to adjust to changing conditions and can pivot their strategies on a dime.
• Risk Tolerance: Embracing risk is second nature to them - they may even LOVE venturing where others fear to tread.
• Loneliness and Solitude: They’re used to going it alone... which can be both a strength and a weakness.

The Wagon Train Man

Now, imagine a leader guiding a wagon train through the frontier, coordinating efforts and ensuring everyone reaches their destination safely. That’s the Wagon Train Man CEO. Here’s what defines them:

• Leadership and Responsibility: Wagon Train Men lead by example and take responsibility for their team’s success.
• Planning and Organization: They excel in creating structured plans and organizing resources effectively.
• Community and Collaboration: Building and nurturing a connected community is at the heart of their leadership style.
• Risk Management: They take calculated risks and always have contingency plans in place.

Which Leadership Style is Best for Your Company?

I'd argue that both types of leaders have their place, but when it comes to businesses with large visions, complex structures, and a desire for community impact, the Wagon Train Man is the person you want. Here’s why:

If you’re operating like a Mountain Man, you might be at risk. Isolation can lead to siloed ideas, poor decision-making, burnout, and even arrogance. Going it alone isn’t sustainable for a business aiming for significant growth and community influence.

The Power of Community

To all the Mountain Men out there, it’s time to find your wagon train. Surround yourself with other leaders who can provide support, new perspectives, and the push you need when times get tough.

Do you have a trusted circle that fulfills these roles? It might be your spouse, a group of close friends, a small Bible study group, or even your pastor. Reflect on this:

• Who challenges your ideas?
• Who evaluates your financials?
• Who questions your leadership?
• Who encourages you when you’re down?
• Who inspires you with new ways of thinking?
• Who isn’t afraid to call you out?
• Who shares your struggles and offers hope?

Join the Acumen Team

If you’re ready to transition from solitary leadership to a collaborative approach, consider joining an Acumen team. Imagine being part of a group of 10-12 CEOs and business owners who share your values and are dedicated to:

• Inspiring You: Get fresh ideas and new perspectives from peers who understand your journey.
• Sharpening You: Engage in meaningful discussions that challenge your thinking and improve your strategies.
• Challenging You: Be held accountable and pushed to achieve more than you thought possible.

Ready to make the shift? Get in touch here - or, if you're in the Front Range area, feel free to message me directly. Together, we can climb higher and go further than we ever could alone.