Hello,

When Manuel Heart became the Chairman of the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe in Colorado over ten years ago, he faced challenges that would overwhelm any leader: poverty, homelessness, substance abuse, suicide among young people, and the daily struggle to meet basic needs. In his words, “We were in a valley. From there, you can’t see far. My role was to help us climb to higher ground so we could see farther.”

He recognized how critical it was to look further into the future, when he shared with me, “We are at risk of losing our children and, with that, our future.” That concern became a turning point, inspiring him and the council to envision a future that could protect and nurture the next generation.

With his council, he led the tribe in creating a shared vision: a future where every child and family would be healthy, safe, and well. In partnership with the organizer of the retreat, Beverly Santicola, I had the privilege to facilitate that process, while the leaders themselves gave the vision its heart and meaning. Our partner and visual artist, Karina Branson, captured that vision on canvas—creating an image that inspired the tribal leaders to act. The vision didn’t erase their struggles overnight, but it shifted their emotions—from despair to optimism. That shift gave them the strength to act, and over the years, step by step, they have made progress toward their vision.

The lesson is universal: when we’re caught in a crisis, it’s easy to remain in the valley, surrounded by fog, focused only on survival. But leaders must find ways to climb higher, where the view clears and new horizons come into sight. And this isn’t only for people with a formal leadership title—it’s for anyone who cares deeply about an issue and aspires to create positive change. No matter where you are, you can choose to climb to higher ground, lift your gaze, and take steps toward the future you want to see. Optimism is the emotion that makes this possible and it can be learned.

My question for you: What are you doing today to climb to higher ground—and keep your optimism alive for the future you want to create?

👉 Watch this brief video clip (6th in a 10 part series): Optimism – The Lens for Visioning

Want more insights like this? Watch previous videos in this series or subscribe to the ASPIRE Newsletter for future videos and tools to help you lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world: www.reinerlomb.com/news

And please share this with colleagues or friends who care about making a difference.

Thank you,
Reiner