Lessons from a Modern Explorer: Reflections on Victor Vescovo's Journey

At a recent YPO lunch event, I had the unique opportunity to hear Victor Vescovo speak—a figure who has made his mark across business, military leadership, and the world of extreme exploration. Vescovo holds the incredible distinction of being the “First to Climb Everest, Visit Ocean’s Deepest Depth and Fly to the Final Frontier”. His presentation was much more than a recounting of remarkable feats; it was an insightful guide to navigating life and business, offering 17 essential life lessons that have helped him in his most challenging moments.

These lessons are not just for adventurers but are equally valuable to anyone making tough decisions, leading teams, or charting their own path in life.

Key Lessons from Vescovo’s Journey

1. Do the math – Whatever the challenge, start with the facts and calculations. Ensure you fully understand the variables before making a move.
2. Say yes whenever possible, no when uncomfortable – Seize opportunities, but don’t be afraid to set boundaries when things don’t feel right.
3. No shortcuts – do the difficult, voluminous work – True success requires dedication to hard work. There’s no shortcut to avoid the work.
4. Make decisions and be prepared to take extremely difficult actions when needed – Any decision is better than no decision at all. In critical moments, decisiveness is key, and the ability to act, even when the stakes are high, is essential.
5. Check. Your. Ego. – Humility opens the door to learning and collaboration, while ego closes it.
6. Say “I don’t know” and “I was wrong” often – Acknowledge your limitations and mistakes. Admitting them builds trust and strengthens relationships.
7. Praise in public, chastise in private – Leaders who uplift their teams publicly and handle issues privately foster a positive and respectful environment.
8. Learn chess – or at least how to think like a chess player – Chess teaches foresight, strategy, and planning several moves ahead.
9. Study history. Read science fiction. – History offers lessons from the past, and science fiction inspires future possibilities and gives a view into the future. Both broaden perspectives.
10. Learn, and respect, trades – Practical, hands-on skills have value, whether you use them directly or not.
11. Be very, very suspect of FITYMI people – Beware of those who operate under the principle of “fake it till you make it.” It’s better to work with people who are honest about their capabilities.
12. Don’t hate, don’t bear grudges – Holding on to negativity drags you down. Forgiveness and letting go free up your energy for more productive pursuits.
13. Don’t do 50/50 partnerships – These often lead to deadlock. Seek partnerships with clear delineation of responsibilities and leadership.
14. Don’t think the law will bring you justice – The legal system doesn’t always lead to fairness. Sometimes, practical resolution lies outside formal systems.
15. Never corner an adversary, give them an honorable exit – Avoid burning bridges or creating enemies. Allowing others a dignified retreat often leads to better outcomes.
16. If you’re going to do something, do it well, or don’t do it – Half-hearted efforts rarely lead to success. Commit fully, or step aside.
17. Be self-disciplined and adaptable – Rigidity can lead to downfall, while self-discipline coupled with flexibility enables long-term success.

Other Insights

Beyond the life lessons, Vescovo shared several thought-provoking insights that truly struck a chord with me:

• He found plastic at the deepest point of the ocean, a stark reminder of humanity’s environmental impact, even in the most remote corners of the Earth.
• We have explored more of Mars than our own oceans, highlighting how much of our planet remains a mystery. Despite the wonders of space, there are vast unknowns still waiting to be discovered beneath our seas.
• America’s culture of accepting failure sets it apart from many parts of the world. Here, failure is seen as a stepping stone to future success, fostering an environment of innovation and risk-taking.

Reflections

What resonated with me most was Vescovo’s excitement for discovery and exploration, his willingness to embrace challenges without prior experience, and his relentless pursuit of pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. He didn’t always have the answers but learned by diving in and adapting as he went along.

Vescovo’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that with curiosity, perseverance, and the right mindset, there’s no limit to what we can discover—both in the world and within ourselves.

As I reflect on his lessons, I’m reminded that life, like exploration, requires us to be bold, humble, and adaptable. Whether we are building businesses, leading teams, or navigating personal challenges, the journey is always an adventure if we approach it with the same openness and tenacity that Vescovo embodies.