The Opportunity for Powerful Leadership in Times of Crisis

Mar 25

“The Chinese use two brush strokes to write the word 'crisis.' One brush stroke stands for danger; the other for opportunity. In a crisis, be aware of the danger--but recognize the opportunity.” - John F. Kennedy

Crisis can mean “danger,” but it can also mean “turning point.” And it is in times of crisis that we have incredible opportunity to decide which way we turn. Which fork in the road do we take? What changes do we enact?

Most of us are at that fork in the road right now. We are all facing it from different angles, but the danger and opportunity are there just the same. From an individual standpoint, we are making choices about how to react or be proactive. We are choosing whether or not to put emphasis on our mental health (in addition to our physical health). We get to choose empathy or apathy.

As leaders, times of crisis give us opportunity as well. Great leaders throughout history are often remembered because of a crisis and how they handled it. Difficult times are all too often the only way we make big strides toward change.

Martin Luther King, Jr. saw the opportunity to use his skills of charismatic speaking and leadership amidst the crisis of inequality. He chose to push for change in civil rights instead of sitting idly by. Susan B. Anthony faced ridicule, arrest, and scorn for her actions in favor of social equality and women’s rights. And Winston Churchill emerged from a time of crisis as an inspiring force that led Britain through WWII, refusing to surrender to Nazi Germany.

How does this apply to us now? Every one of us has an opportunity to rise above and emerge on the other side of this current crisis stronger and ready for positive change. We have the potential to be great leaders as we navigate the people around us through seemingly impossible times into a bright future.

Here are 6 tips for leading powerfully through difficult times:

1. Maintain a big picture perspective.

This is one chapter of many. Yes, you’ll have to deal with the details, but sometimes getting stuck zoomed in at 200% isn’t a good idea. There are ebbs and flows to everything in life, and crises remind us that we are part of something bigger than ourselves. Use that perspective to your benefit.

2. Keep your emotions in check.

In chaotic times, people need an anchor. Show that you care about the circumstances, but keep your patience. Stay calm. Stay centered. Take charge of your thoughts and remember to exude positivity. By doing so, you are offering more value than you could ever know.

3. Keep a giving mindset.

The default mode in tough times is to switch over to a selfish mindset — to think about what’s happening to YOU and/or YOUR organization. But stay conscious of the fact that others out there are still in need. To the best of your ability, continue to keep your sights set on how you can contribute.

4. Focus on small accomplishments.

While a big picture perspective is indeed important, in tough times it may be necessary to keep goals small. When stress is weighing on you (and everyone around you), simple tasks are more doable. And having little wins is something that can make a big difference for morale.

5. Keep communication open.

It’s important to communicate to the people around you that you have their backs. They want clear and honest information, and you want them to be there with you on the other side of the crisis. You also have to be willing to hear and address their concerns.

6. Take care of yourself.

The stress of trying times can take a toll. If you put your own health on the back burner, you will have a hard time taking care of anyone else. Practice self-care, and focus on both your mental and physical health. Remember to take breaks regularly.

In Summary

Crises are not necessarily expected or desired, but within them is always the opportunity for change and growth into something better. Come out on the other side thriving by keeping these 6 things in mind.