We all talk about it frequently, well now it feels like the tough times keep rolling in. The world is chaotic and getting more so. We are just now normalizing how we work and interact with others after the pandemic, and boom, now we have extreme economic volatility. Not to mention a major war, political chaos, and never ending uncertainty. Lots of opportunities for trauma and catastrophizing. So, what do we do as leaders?
As leaders we are expected to … well, lead, to rise above it all and find solutions. Perhaps my language is off, not so much as “rise above it”, more “lead through it.” How do we not so much ignore the challenges, nor simply accept the reality of them, but we embrace and thrive with these obstacles. The Latin expression is “amore fati”- to love fate. We as leaders are resilient, prepared for challenge and welcome these opportunities. To quote Marcus Aurelius: “It’s unfortunate that this has happened. No. Its fortunate that this has happened, and I’ve remained unharmed by it, not shattered by the present or frightened of the future. It could have happened to anyone. But not everyone could have remained unharmed by it.” (emphasis added). As an old boss of mine was fond of saying: “we chose to be leaders, no one forced it on us”.
So, my friends how are you loving fate, and leading? The following are the fundamental tools that that I prefer
- Staying Present and Patient
- Listening
- Empathy
- Candor
- Appreciation for people and good fortune
How about you? What practice are you employing on a regular basis that allows you to
Now is our opportunity to lead- Just Do It !