What a 4-Hour Hike Up a Volcano in El Salvador Taught Me About Resilience

Volcano photographed on the hike

Earlier this year, I set out on a 4-hour hike to the top of Santa Ana Volcano in El Salvador, the country's highest stratovolcano, standing over 7,000 feet above sea level. I expected great views and a solid workout on the 5 miles hike. What I didn’t expect was a powerful reminder of what resilience really looks like, both in life and at work.

My friends and I were up at dawn, half asleep but excited. After what felt like an endless drive, we arrived at the park entrance. For $1, we rented walking sticks (the best dollar I ever spent). After instructions from our guide, we lined up in a single file and started the hike. I learned a few lessons along the way.

1. The journey is not always easy, but it is worth it

The hike started off with excitement. The weather was perfect, the group was energized, and the path seemed manageable. But as we climbed, the terrain became steeper, the sun hotter, and the air thinner. At one point, I thought, “Why did I sign up for this again?”

Resilience isn’t about always feeling strong. It is about continuing even when you don’t. In our careers, we often start with enthusiasm. But as challenges arise, the excitement can fade. That’s when grit kicks in.

Kokui hiking on a trail on Santa Ana Volcano

2. Pace yourself, not everything requires a sprint

Some hikers powered ahead, while others (like me) took their time, pausing to catch our breath. At first, I felt pressure to keep up. But I quickly realized: my pace was what would get me to the top.

At work, it’s tempting to match someone else’s speed or path. But resilience means knowing when to push and when to pause. Sustainable success is built on self-awareness, not burnout.

3. Encouragement matters more than you think

Along the way, we encouraged each other and were energized when strangers became cheerleaders. A simple “You’ve got this!” or “Almost there!” from fellow hikers gave me the energy to keep moving.

In the workplace, a few words of encouragement can make a huge difference. A quick message, a shared win, or recognition during a tough time builds morale and resilience in teams.

4. The view from the top is better when you've worked for it

Standing at the summit, looking into the immense turquoise crater of the volcano, I felt a surge of joy, pride, and deep awe for the power and beauty of nature. But it wasn’t just the view that moved me – it was the climb, the effort, and the challenge that made it all meaningful.

Llamatepec Lake at the Crater of Santa Ana Volcano

Resilience teaches us that the best outcomes aren’t always the easiest. They’re the ones we grow into, fight for, and earn.

Whether you're navigating a tough quarter at work, managing a career transition, or just climbing your own “volcano,” remember:

• Your pace is valid.

• Encouragement fuels endurance.

• And the reward is often greater when you’ve stretched yourself to reach it.

So, what’s your volcano right now – and what’s keeping you going?

#leadershiplessons #InsightfulSteps #careergrowth #resilience

Kokui at the summit of Santa Ana