The Power of Focus
April 6, 2020
April 17, 2020
By Lorie Pope
These are unprecedented times. Leadership skills are being stretched during this time of incredible crisis and we are hoping ‘normal’ life returns very soon. We are truly out of our comfort zones.
The current crisis is a time where leaders are being watched more than ever, as their teams look to them for guidance and reassurance.
- Does the leader care? Are they reaching out to their team members or laying low?
- Does the leader have a plan? Has it been presented to the team, with updates as changes and new information comes along?
- Is the leader there for them? Is the leader accessible for questions and frank dialogue?
- Does the leader convey trust? Trust is a currency…now and for years to come…so build it with each team member.
Do not underestimate the ‘power of simple’…simple words of advice, encouragement and hope go a long way! As college BB coach John Wooden was famous for saying, “Get back to basics.”
- Give hope with simple steps.
- Remember that a healthy culture goes a long way – trust and communication will be the backbone of organizations that keep building it during this time.
- Essentially, a healthy culture in an organization maximizes intelligence.
- Take care of people’s psychological needs – security, flexible plan, encouragement, vulnerability – and they will be with that leader every step of the way.
Reach out to others, give that message of hope, and help build momentum to find answers. Albert Einstein said, “In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” I’m not referring to just business opportunities, but also relationships with your families and friends. Find ways to grow stronger together during this time, and also to grow personally.
So, focus on CULTURE.
Be CREATIVE.
Be VULNERABLE – you don’t have all the answers. And you won’t.
Don’t double down on efficiency…but on EFFECTIVENESS.
In embracing the new reality of life right now, there some positives that are coming out: more time with family, more time to re-think life, and more time to lean-in and learn a new perspective in life! It’s amazing the changes people are embracing when there is seemingly no choice. We are all leaders…and in every circumstance there is opportunity for growth.
It’s so important to ask “Who needs to hear my voice today?” There are many who need to hear that there is hope, and answers will come. America is a great nation, we are known for our determination and persistence to find answers. In WW2, the Americans were known for their ability to think on their feet, be flexible and favor quick, decisive action.
Make it a significant day!
