Thriving in Hard Times (page 2)
It is at this critical, seemingly hopeless time that leaders emerge with a vision of hope. Not a sound bite or a political slogan; but rather a real vision that is Hopeful (full of hope). When that happens, others follow, and the healing begins.
Accountability to process and efficiency is critical to the survival of any company or society. Layoffs and downsizing are a fact of life in hard times. Even so, we must avoid devaluing human capital, and throwing the whole equation out of balance. People implement process and execute strategy.
Organizations are made of individuals, and individual thinking will determine our future. At Magis we have a process to challenge creative thinking. When things are changing and unwanted sacrifice is required, examine these critical things:
Get a flip chart and capture the illusive truth.
- Going forward, is there clarity and agreement on your long term vision and purpose?
- Do you and/or they know what is expected individually?
- Do you have the time, tools, and training to thrive in your role? Does your team? What development programs are in place?
- What are the pros and cons of your current reality? What’s going great and what needs to change? Why?
- What steps are necessary to move forward together? (Individually and collectively – Long term and short term)
- List some alternatives and outrageous possibilities. Think Magis!
- A good start would be to agree on one good, solid, exciting goal and list what it looks like in glorious detail when achieved.
Leadership Teams: Walk through the exercise until there is enthusiasm and energy. There are no bad ideas, and everyone must contribute.
Practice outrageous thinking.
The learning from this practice is irreplaceable. When times are bad, it is easy to develop victim behavior and say things like, “That’s just not fair”, or “This situation is hopeless.” It would be better to say, “it is what it is, and here are some options.”
As soon as energy shifts from self-pity to creative resolve, the magic begins. Great leaders are masters of navigating unwanted and unexpected change with courage, confidence, and authentic communication. They are able to redirect their thinking to a desirable future outcome, and then seek opportunities to move in that direction.
Do this for yourself and your family. If your work involves leading others, you owe this to your team.
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