leadingtoday.org
Copyright 2006 ă weLEAD, Inc.
Every year millions of individuals decide to
start a New Year's resolution. With the best of intentions these resolutions
are intended to produce positive change, or establish a new personal habit.
Unfortunately, these usually last only a few days and quickly fall by the
wayside. However, the determination to make some needed changes or to develop a
new positive habit is a good
principle. But the process of changing anything can be a difficult experience.
Without commitment and sacrifice we will not be able to achieve real lasting change. In recognition of a new
calendar year, I would like to suggest to you a special area of personal growth and some valid ways you can achieve
it. One quality that all leaders need is greater resilience, especially when they are faced with severe challenges
or trauma. Resilience is defined as the ability to recover quickly from setbacks.
Anyone in a leadership position will eventually be confronted with adversity
and self-doubt. Here are some things you can do to become more resilient.
An
emphasis on the "present." Far too many leaders focus on
the past. This causes us to wallow in "if only's" or "what
if's" as we relive our mistakes over and over again. It is good to
acknowledge our errors and even make restitution if possible. But then it is
time to let go and live in the present. Reliving the past delays the healing
process and drains the energy that is
needed for new ideas or growth. Resolve to live in the now and make the
most of today. You can't drive a car while intently looking in the rear view mirror. What is behind you is
important, but it is in the past.
What is most important is what lies ahead
and this is what we should concentrate on!
Bravely
confront the tough issues. Promise yourself that you will face the
hardest issues head-on. Many problems
fester and grow because we are afraid or reluctant to tackle them. It takes
courage to admit your fears or weaknesses. Perhaps we are being held back by a
person, or by an old tradition or by an new idea. It may be time to deal with
this barrier and achieve a breakthrough. Anytime we muster up enough strength
to do this, we face a certain amount of risk. However, the longer we wait to do
the right thing, the harder it will be to confront and solve the tough issues.
Be
willing to accept help when needed. Contrary to popular belief,
strong leaders are willing to reach out for help when they need it. According
to psychologist Salvatore Maddi of the University of California-Irvine, it's a
myth that resilient people display a solitary toughness. It takes humility to
analyze and admit our need for help. In November of 1994, former American
President Ronald Reagan announced to the world that he had been diagnosed with
Alzheimer's disease. In a personal hand-written letter he informed the American
people of this serious condition. He knew he would need the help, love and
support of his family to face this difficult challenge. The affection he
received from friends and family along with quality of health care extended his
life another 10 years.
Tap into
spirituality and life changing experiences. Does it really make any
difference in what you believe about your role in the world? Karen Reivich,
co-author of The Resilience Factor
believes that spirituality aids people in overcoming challenges. If you look at
the overwhelming majority of historical leaders who achieved positive change in
the world, you will discover a common thread of their belief in a higher power. This belief gave them a
mission and sense of destiny. Many people who face death due to disease or
accident find themselves with a renewed appreciation
of life and a desire to make a difference while they are still alive.
Model a
"can-do" attitude with optimism. This is not living in
denial. People in denial try to hide behind addictions or abuse. In contrast, a
can-do optimism faces problems and struggles with focus and confidence. Even
small changes we make in ourselves can reinforce
a can-do spirit and keep us moving forward. Psychologist Barbara Fredrickson of
the University of Michigan believes there is evidence that optimism helps to
ward off depression. Many leaders face a period of melancholy or mild
depression after facing a severe crisis. The optimistic ones recover after a
short period of time with renewed zeal and commitment.
As we begin a new year let's remember the importance of being a
more resilient leader. Everyone eventually faces conflict, crisis or a personal
trial. But, it is those who rise to get on their feet again who make a
difference in the lives of others.
For weLEAD, this is Greg
Thomas reminding you that it was Walter Bagehot who once wrote, “The great
pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do”.
On
the weLEAD Website you will
find over 70 other free helpful leadership tips. They are all available in a
text version or as an MP3 audio!