I finished speaking this week at the Afflink Summit. A wonderful company and organization! One of my points with these successful folks was the reality of mountain top moments and the Mountain Top Blues.

We can’t live up on the mountain top, we have to come back down!

-DRB

And most deaths on Mount Everest occur on the way back DOWN. I used Rory McIlroy as a recent example, because he achieved the highest of mountain tops in winning The Masters and finally completing the grand slam of golf!

Consider the case of Olympic athletes, who train for years to achieve glory. After their event, they often experience a profound low, struggling to adjust back to normalcy. The mountain top blues… This adjustment period is crucial, as they need to find a new purpose or goal to avoid the ‘mountain top blues’.

His last major was in 2014 and he struggled far longer than he wanted, but Rory finally reached the mountain top again!! and then, “what’s next?”  

“I climbed my Everest in April, and I think after you do something like that, you’ve got to make your way back down, and you’ve got to look for another mountain to climb.” – Rory McIlroy

Rory McIlroy’s quote about looking for another mountain to climb resonates with many who feel aimless after a peak moment. It emphasizes the need for continual growth and the pursuit of new challenges. If we can improve the process, we can also avoid the mountain top blues more easily.

We all have mountain top moments and they view is the best!

-DRB

In the business world, leaders often face this challenge after a successful project launch or financial payout. The initial excitement is quickly followed by the realization that the journey doesn’t end.

Mountain top moments, though exhilarating, can lead to a sense of emptiness when the excitement fades away. This phenomenon is not uncommon in various aspects of life, including personal achievements and professional milestones. For instance, after winning a championship, athletes often face a psychological dip as they realize the peak of success is temporary. This echoes the feelings many experience after significant life events, like graduating or starting a new job, where the anticipation and celebration are often followed by a stark return to everyday life.

However, the good news about mountain top moments is they don’t last. It’s good news because it reveals the sheer power of time…

The good times don’t last is PROOF that the bad times can’t last! That means no matter what you are struggling through, this too shall pass! It means the Mountain Top Blues won’t last either!

How To Avoid The Mountain Top Blues 1) The harder you work for something, the more you’ll enjoy it.

Reaching the mountain top should feel good! But, it’s the struggle that is actually the prize! The process, including all the setbacks and learning experiences, is what truly shapes us. Understanding that winning feels better than having won reinforces the idea that the journey is what enriches our lives.

Your identity is a tapestry woven from various life experiences, not solely defined by achievements. Reflecting on personal values and passions beyond performance can help alleviate the pressure that often accompanies success. Engage in activities that foster a sense of belonging and purpose, contributing to a balanced identity.

Winning feels better than having won!

2)Your identity matters!

Your performance is just part of your identity!

Understanding that your issues will persist after a significant accomplishment is crucial. This realization can lead to a more realistic perspective on success. It’s important to confront and embrace challenges, using them as stepping stones for personal growth.

Your performance cannot define you and you must be in touch with your larger purpose and where your real identity is rooted.

Other people can describe you, but only you can define you! 

3) Your issues will still remain.

No matter what mountain top you summit, regardless of the pay off, affirmations, or how good it feels in the moment, one harsh reality remains… You’ll still have the same issues and concerns as before. 

We “think” that we will be changed and we will, but not because of the mountaintop moment, we change because of the valleys! That’s where the real growth takes place!

Self-awareness is key to managing expectations. Regularly reflecting on your goals and the reasons behind them can help ground your achievements in reality. This practice fosters resilience against the ‘mountain top blues’, as you learn to appreciate the journey rather than just the destination.

Prioritize strategies that promote mental health and well-being to combat feelings of emptiness. Consider mindfulness practices, such as meditation or journaling, which can help maintain a healthy perspective on life’s ups and downs. Building a strong support network of friends and mentors can also provide encouragement during challenging times.

The real growth takes place in the valleys!

Ultimately, navigating the highs and lows of life requires a balance. Embrace the successes but remain grounded in reality. Recognizing that life is a series of peaks and valleys can help you appreciate the journey while equipping you to handle the inevitable ‘mountain top blues’ that follow.

As we reflect on the concept of ‘mountain top blues’, it’s essential to remember that every ascent has its challenges. Whether in personal life, career pursuits, or even hobbies, there will always be a need for new mountains to climb. This keeps life exciting and meaningful, helping us avoid stagnation.

4) Expectations rise faster than the results.

Unless we are aware, we will just continually move the goal posts in terms of our performance.

The mountaintop moment didn’t fulfill us, so our own mind and others try to get us thinking that we must climb a bigger mountain! THEN, we will be enough and that’s the reason why we have the mountaintop blues in the first place.

These will help…Use these strategies before embarking on your journey as well!

It’s not about the setback, it’s about the comeback!

 

Dr. Rob Bell is a Sport Psychology Coach. DRB & associates coach executives and professional athletes. Some clients have included three different winners on the PGA Tour, Indy Eleven, University of Notre Dame, Marriott, and Walgreens. 

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