How Well Am I Navigating Change as a Leader?

I have missed seeing many of you in person this year as face-to-face events have been canceled and schedules have changed. Like many public speakers, my calendar looked strangely different after travel restrictions began to take effect in March. In this unique season, I have often found myself, like so many leaders, pondering what the future holds and how to navigate it. Amid all the uncertainty and change, I have been encouraged and challenged by the following reminders and questions:

• Unexpected change encourages innovation we might not have otherwise initiated for ourselves or organizations. How can I/we embrace innovation? Are we doing so effectively?
• Change, stress, and uncertainty bring to the surface the strengths and weaknesses that are deep within each of us and allow for increased self-awareness and personal growth. What have I realized about myself this year? How have I grown this year? Where do I need continued growth in my life and organization?
• Unexpected availability creates space for new opportunities we had not even begun to consider. What unexpected opportunities have come my way this year? How have I responded?
• Our gifts and talents, if continually developed, can find new ways to flourish even if the context around us changes. How am I developing my gifts and talents for new situations and contexts?
• The health of my body, soul, and spirit require extra effort and attention in seasons like this where change fatigue is ever present and real. As a leader, mentor, teacher, or parent, we need to be sure we are investing in our own well-being, so we can be in a place of emotional and mental stability and strength as we encourage and lead others. What does that need to look like for my life in this season? What changes are needed to help me, my family or team, or organization to be healthy and grow in the days ahead? 

As we head into Fall 2020, with its various inherent challenges and opportunities, may you find encouragement and strength as you continue to lead and mentor those around you in ways that equip them to thrive in days ahead.

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