How to lead better in difficult times.
These past two weeks have been difficult for so many.
It’s hard to witness what is happening in Ukraine without feeling lots of anger and grief.
These are very difficult times.
And, oddly enough, these are the exact moments that you can recognize what real leadership looks like. (Or not).
Crisis creates the stage to make or break leaders.
Did you know that the brain stores memory more rapidly and vividly when you are highly emotional? Think of the memories you recall most. Chances are, these involve a higher degree of emotions than an average day in your life.
When times are challenging, how you respond will be remembered more than at any other time.
Emotional regulation pays off.
If you struggle with how to keep calm and confident in the eye of the storm, this week’s message is for you.
5 simple practices that can help you regain your footing and lead better.
Get grounded.
Close your eyes and get your feet planted firmly on the ground.
2. Breathe deeply.
Inhale slowly through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Make the exhale twice as long as the inhale. Keep repeating this as you add on the following exercise.
3. Get centered.
Imagine a line running out of the top of your head and going down into the earth below.
Take slow, deliberate breaths and, with eyes closed, imagine following the line in your mind down and up again. The key is to do this slowly, beginning with the top of your head and following the line down through your body and into the ground. When you get to the ground, turn around and bring your attention back up the line. If you catch yourself speeding up, stop and regroup and begin again. This should be your only point of focus for several minutes.
4. Access your optimism
Optimism is expansive and allows you to be more resourceful, innovative and imaginative. Conversely, cynicism diminishes options. Even if you are not naturally an optimist, make it a disciplined practice to include this in your day. Find things to be grateful for and/or inspired by. Great leaders naturally take others away from fear and into certainty. They inspire us to think and dream bigger. How could you bring more optimism to those around you today?
5. Lead with your heart.
Every member of your team is a person who requires nurturing and connection in order to stay motivated and engaged. Take time to think of each individual you are responsible for. What do they want and need? What could you do to help them feel more valued and valuable? Brilliant leaders know that they aren’t here to control others but rather to create an environment where others can shine. Get out of your head and drop into your heart where your humanity can provide the wise insights that will set you apart as the kind of leader needed now.
This really is a time of change. Those who use this wave of challenge to do the right thing, to take care of their people, coming from a place of calm and confidence, will win more than the day. They will lead the future.
Leadership skills are not native, they are made.
If you find yourself struggling with how best to manage and inspire your people, the skills that got you where you are won’t take you to that next level of success. That’s where a proven, certified coach like me is needed. I can help you access your greatest assets and train you in the areas you’ve yet to think of.