Leading from the Heart

March 20, 2020

By Lorie Pope

How do leaders lead through times of crisis and uncertainty? As a leader, that means you have to be a rock in stormy times…a great reminder from John Maxwell. Personally, as I look back over the years and the many storms we’ve encountered, it’s reassuring to remember answers were always found. To be transparent, leaders also feel fear. We’re not immune to it. For all of us though, we understand that we have the responsibility to lead.  So, let’s take the challenge to become better leaders as we navigate this new road. 

In the midst of uncertainty and those moments of “is this really happening?” – we are processing the reality of a different world right now. I met with a group of people recently (virtually) and reactions ranged from “we can do this,” to disbelief, fear and “I keep thinking I’ll wake up and this was a bad dream.”

So here we are…after making sense of COVID-19 two weeks ago, last week was a time of adjustment and sudden change, and we are now moving into the stages of grieving.  Denial and disbelief, anger over loss, disappointment, to bargaining, depression and finally acceptance.  Be prepared for those around you going back and forth with emotions… listen, and give hope. 

Here are some questions for those who have children coping with the loss of prom, school, trips, sporting events, competitions, award ceremonies, graduation, etc.  You can make a different list for different age groups of children through adults. Step back and listen to their answers in a new way: 

What do they most feel the loss of right now?

•  Isolation?
• What can be a positive gain?  Spending family time? 

What do they miss the most of ‘normal?’

• Explore loss of routines, activities
• Make a new ‘normal’ with routine

What new things are they grateful for?   

• All of a sudden…finding cheese or chicken in the store might be a big win!
• Set a habit of two or three times a day to list what “I’m grateful for…”

Here are some thoughts to explore and reflect on:

• What are ways that you would like to grow in your life through this experience? 
• Personally, as a couple, as a family (if applicable)
• What are your top three priorities right now?
• Who are 3 or 4 isolated people you are going to reach out to and encourage?
• Gratitude list:  make a list of what you are grateful for over the course of 3 days.  Compare it in a month…see if it’s changed. 

We’ve all been through a lot these past weeks, so take time to really appreciate your health, your family, and your friends during this time – for we all miss those ‘ordinary days’ that were ‘normal.’   

Action:  Where does your voice need to be heard right now?