3 Tips for Tough Times.

Thoughts on self-managing through challenge

Many leaders I coach are currently facing moments of challenge. These challenges differ from client to client and situation to situation—whether it’s dealing with interpersonal conflict, leading through uncertainty, or handling mistakes and failures. While their challenges are unique, all leaders will face moments and even prolonged seasons of challenge. Here, I want to share three actionable concepts that can help you navigate and self-manage during these difficult times.

1. Locus of Control

When you’re overwhelmed by a challenging situation, it can be helpful to refocus on what is within your control. Here’s an exercise to support you in doing so:

1. Take a deep breath and exhale slowly.

2. Grab a pen and paper and list what is outside of your control and what is within your control regarding the situation.

3. Acknowledge the items on the "outside of control" list by stating, "These things are beyond my control."

4. Focus on the "within control" list. Prioritize these items based on your context and strengths. Decide which top 2-3 items you want to address. Determine actionable steps, deadlines, and who can assist you.

2. Mindfulness

During challenging times, leaders can get trapped in a whirlwind of thoughts and worries. Use this mindfulness exercise to ground yourself:

1. Take a deep breath in and out.

2. Observe your surroundings. Silently name 5 things you can see.

3. Notice what you can feel. Silently name 4 sensations.

4. Listen to your environment. Silently name 3 sounds you hear.

5. Focus on your sense of smell. Silently name 2 scents.

6. Consider your sense of taste. Silently name 1 thing you can taste.

You can do this micro-mindfulness exercise silently, in 1-2 minutes, and no one needs to know you are doing it.  It helps you pause, center yourself, and clear your mind, allowing for more intentional action. 

3. Gratitude

Navigating challenges can be tough, but maintaining perspective through gratitude can be beneficial. The Japanese concept of Nagomi, as explained by Ken Mogi in The Way of Nagomi, emphasizes enhancing the positive aspects of life to balance the difficulties we face. Consider these reflective questions:

1. What are three things you’ve learned from this challenge?

2. What is one benefit or gain you’ve achieved or might achieve from this experience?

3. What strength are you able to utilize in this challenge?

Reflecting on these questions can help you acknowledge the positive aspects of your situation, keeping your perspective balanced and forward-focused.

As you navigate your challenges, I hope these concepts provide you with support, fresh perspectives, or relief. While you might feel the weight of these challenges deeply, remember that consistency is key to building and maintaining trust. By applying these strategies, I hope you can continue to lead with steadiness and confidence.

Onward,

Emily

About this newsletter: A Human Endeavor is a newsletter that I write about leadership - it is imperfect. For me, it is an exercise in reflection, clarification, sharing, learning, growing, and being of service to others.

If you are interested in exploring 1:1 Leadership Coaching with me or a leadership development workshop for your team - I’d love to chat with you. Please reach out to me at emily@osomar.com or you can use this link to find some time.