Becoming a Resilient Leader

Challenging times call for resilience. Here are a few things you can do to stay at the top of your game:

Get Focused
Stress increases when there is uncertainty. Identify the most important things you need to accomplish over the next 30 days and focus on these. If you are leading others, make sure everyone is clear about their part in getting these goals accomplished.

Be Realistic
Think about what you can influence, what you can control and don’t worry about things that are out of your control. This helps you step back, stop wasting time and move forward. Frustration escalates for those who try and control the uncontrollable.

Know Your Limits
do a better job setting boundaries and using your energy purposefully. Not only will you relieve stress but you will gain a positive sense of achievement.

Live in the Now
Focus on the present moment rather than what could happen in the future. Resilient people resist the tendency to speculate about all the possible problems or obstacles they may have to confront in the future.

Stay Positive
Learn to decide what you truly want and then take positive action to make it happen. Negativity keeps you stuck and depletes your energy, creativity and problem solving skills.

Be a Learner

Resilient people are learners. They are willing to learn new skills and try new ways of doing things. They are also willing to let go of old behaviors that no longer work.

Separate Who You Are From What You Do

When our identity is anchored in what we do, our well being depends on our perceived job performance. Remember that you are more than your job title and focus on all the wonderful qualities you bring to the world.

Be Honest About Emotional Needs

Resilient people display the ability to cope and bounce back in the face of setbacks or disappointments. One way they do this is by acknowledging their emotional needs and unashamedly reaching out to others for support.

Do A Better Job Delegating

When we think we have to do everything, we become candidates for burn out. Resilient people are good delegators. They know when to offload responsibilities and focus on the critical few things that are most important for them to do.

Set Up a Mentoring Relationship

Mentors provide us with valuable learning based on their wisdom and experience. Think about who might be a good mentor and reach out to him or her. Most people appreciate the compliment and welcome the opportunity to mentor others.