Packing is an art. It’s about knowing what you need, what you can leave behind, and what will make the journey more manageable. Whether it’s an expedition into the Arctic or a busy work week, the principle is the same: thoughtful preparation leads to smoother journeys.
When I prepare for a polar expedition, every item in my sledge is carefully considered. Weight is critical—not just for efficiency, but because carrying unnecessary items can sap valuable energy. Each piece of equipment had to earn its place, serving a purpose and contributing to the success of the journey.
On our expedition to the North Pole, I had to make the decision about which book to take as one luxury to make life more bearable. I chose Running Tall by Sally Gunnell. This book highlights the journey that Sally took from her upbringing in Essex to becoming 400-metre hurdles world-record holder, Olympic champion and world champion highlighting the blend of talent, relentless effort, and drive to succeed that fuelled her achievements. And when I was having a bad day, I would read a few pages and think…if Sally can do it, so can I. It gave me belief and a sense of determination to succeed.
In the workplace, “packing” applies just as much to mental and emotional preparation as it does to physical tools. When tackling a big project, what do you pack into your metaphorical sledge? Skills, resources, and connections are the essentials, but it’s just as important to leave behind what weighs you down—self-doubt, unnecessary tasks, or outdated methods.
At its heart, packing teaches us to focus on priorities. You can’t carry everything, and you don’t need to. By clarifying what truly matters for the journey ahead, you set yourself up for success and minimize distractions.
Yet packing also requires flexibility. On one expedition, I found myself needing to repurpose gear to fix an unexpected equipment failure. In the same way, workplace challenges often require us to use our “packed tools” creatively, adapting to unforeseen circumstances. Whether you’re preparing for an adventure, a career change, or a major presentation, ask yourself: What do you truly need to bring? And just as importantly, what can you leave behind?