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Leading in Challenging Times
Day after day, year after year, challenges that seem overwhelming will stare us in the face.
“When we least expect it, life sets us a challenge to test our courage and willingness to change; at such a moment, there is no point in pretending that nothing has happened or in saying that we are not yet ready. The challenge will not wait. Life does not look back.”
— Paulo Coelho
Everyone claims we are living in challenging times — but really, when haven’t times been challenging? When hasn’t leading been difficult? If you think today is challenging, all you need to do is listen to Billy Joel’s classic 1989 hit, “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” which covers five decades, each more difficult than the last. The moral is that day after day, year after year, challenges that seem overwhelming will stare us in the face.
Because we cannot escape the ongoing problems brought on by an ever-changing world, we need our own set of rules to help us lead, coach, and teach. They are not for a specific time or circumstance. Instead, they become our educating manifesto, which needs to be examined every day. Here they are:
Fear nothing, respect everything. Don’t be fearful of change or something new. Unlearn old habits. Always respect those before you and those who are ahead of you.
Work on your mental toughness every day — from fasting to working out. Challenge yourself to meet the new challenges. Don’t tell anyone. Make it your secret, then watch others follow your path.
Stay positive — you reached this level, believe in yourself. Make your inner voice a valuable asset.
Don’t complain, because no one honestly cares about your problems, they have their own. Don’t complain to officials or upper management — results matter, not compliments.
Be overly honest. The “truth” will always be the cornerstone of your leadership skills. Truth is non-negotiable — from honest conversations to honest actions, every day.
Lead by doing. You set the example; all eyes are on you every second of the day. You will inspire more by your actions than your words.
Listen intently. Make sure you listen as well as hear everything. Letting go of your ego will allow you to listen with relentless intent. Ego and lack of hearing go hand in hand.
Teach others — spend time sharing your knowledge. Give to others with your time, your effort and your willingness to make those around you better. If the team is as essential as you claim, then making the team members better is paramount.
Care about everything. There are no minor details.
Have competitive stamina. Every day is a unique opportunity to cultivate and reach new goals. The journey is a marathon, not a sprint.
Today is a challenge, but so is tomorrow. Embrace it and live immediately!
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