Resilient Leaders: Navigating Through Challenging Times
Lately, it’s felt like nothing has been “easy.” Of course, we know it’s rarely “easy” being a leader - whether that’s in a corporation, as an entrepreneur, or even in volunteer leadership roles. We juggle professional, global, political, and personal pressures, which can be overwhelming even for the most experienced of us. In such chaotic times, resilience isn't just important—it's often that reservoir that keeps us going strong despite what we may be facing at any given moment. So if you’re feeling buffeted at every turn, read on.
Survive, Thrive & Advance
Think of resilience like a muscle you can flex and strengthen. Use your current challenges to your advantage. Consider how oysters turn grit into pearls - or how rough sandpaper smooths knotty surfaces — as leaders, we can develop resilience to handle whatever comes our way. Remember 2020? Forbes reminds us that “Nearly every organization will face a significant crisis at some point, and small crises regularly, so leaders must be prepared.”
Individual resilience builds team resilience. And team resilience builds organizational resilience.
New research, including McKinsey's investigation into organizational resilience, highlights how important it is for businesses to be resilient for survival. Companies that promote sharing knowledge, support innovation at all levels, and prioritize well-being are better equipped to handle challenges and come out stronger in the end.
But what does it really mean to build resilience in yourself and those around you? Here are three basic strategies to increase personal (and ultimately organizational) resilience that we recommend you include in your leadership toolkit:
Stay Connected: When things get tough, it's tempting to want to do things by yourself (trust us we’ve been there!!!) and that's when reaching out to your network is key. This could be coworkers, friends, or family. Be clear about the support you need, and offer support for others. It’s easier for people to provide support when they understand the ask, and - at least for us - it always feels better when it’s reciprocal. In staying connected, you not only build your own resilience but also create a support system for others.
Make it Easy for Your Team: Leading isn't about piling on more stress—it's about lightening the load. You are a resilience creator for your team! To make this easier, break down barriers, set clear goals, and keep communication flowing. According to The Center for Workplace Mental Health, 65% of US employees view their jobs as the number one stressor in their lives. Yikes! When you create a space of trust and support, you set your team up for success, no matter what challenges they face.
Practice Empathy: Resilient leadership starts with empathy—knowing that everyone has their own struggles and triumphs. Put emotional intelligence front and center for yourself and your team, and create a workplace where honesty and kindness are valued. (And if you need a quick primer on emotional intelligence, check out this past Nova blog post.) By understanding and valuing your team's needs, you build a resilient crew ready to tackle anything that comes their way.
Building a Culture of Resilience
Resilience is the foundation for long-term success in a world that's always evolving. When we focus on well-being, build strong connections, and show empathy, we create a culture of resilience. This culture not only helps individuals but also strengthens organizations, enabling all of us to overcome challenges and prosper.
Navigating Change as a Leader
Joseph Campbell once said that "We must be willing to let go of the life we planned so as to have the life that is waiting for us." In these crazy times, being a resilient leader isn't about sticking to what you know—it's about embracing the unknown with courage and grace. At Nova Leadership, we understand how crucial it is for both leaders and organizations to be resilient. That's why we created our Mastermind series, which is based in part on Campbell’s work on the Hero’s Journey. We’re here to help you find clarity, get a fresh perspective, and prioritize what really matters to you. Now. Join us for a Mastermind to chart your own Hero’s Journey.