There’s no question that the COVID-19 pandemic arose out of practically nowhere, and it changed the world as we knew it. The modern “workplace” has been irrevocably altered, and businesses have had to stay ahead of the curve to keep thriving under the burden of the unknown.
But now that the dust has settled, we can begin to look back and learn from the chaos. As leaders in this new normal, we must take away a few lessons — after all, real growth comes from perseverance through difficult times and willingness to reflect on the past and make a change.
Here are five lessons leaders can take away from the global pandemic:
1. Understand Your “Why”
“Success demands singleness of purpose.” — Vince Lombardi, Football Player and Coach
We cannot lead a team to success when we don’t understand our purpose. Amidst the chaos of the pandemic, many of us scrambled to stay afloat. And when we’re holding on by the skin of our teeth, it’s easy to lose sight of our “why.” However, the organization’s purpose is what unites people toward a common goal.
When times get tough, cling even tighter to your purpose instead of drowning in minutiae. Your team will be inspired by your unwillingness to waiver and join the fight to make your vision a reality.
2. Lead with Greater Awareness, Communication, and Prioritization
When times get tough, it’s easy to regress to our comfort zone. Having greater awareness takes intentionality, but the results are undeniable. When you are aware — of your “why,” of the challenges that lay ahead, of your people’s challenges and concerns — and when you communicate with frequency and transparency, you will find that your priorities will be evident to your team. And when a leader has their priorities straight, the people will see and follow.
3. Pay Attention to What You Consume
With all the negativity surrounding the pandemic, it was easy to fall into a dark headspace. While leaders shouldn’t bury their heads in the sand, they should be careful not to dwell on the negative. Whether it’s the news, online articles, books, or even negative talk at the “water cooler,” watch what you’re consuming. If you’re not careful, it could consume you.
4. Recognize Opportunities for Improvement
No matter the challenges, opportunities to prosper will always exist. Don’t magnify the issue when something unforeseen arises by dwelling on it. Instead, look to meet needs. Ask yourself how you can better support your employees or rally your team around outside-the-box solutions. After all, with every new challenge that comes your way, your people always have an opportunity to grow their skill sets.
5. Pursue Your Own Growth and Development
Along with the growth and development of your people, there’s no better time than now to build skills that will also serve you better in the future. The pandemic has moved to more education platforms online, so take advantage and sign up for a leadership course or listen to a podcast that will stretch your perspective. Whatever you do, don’t push your growth and development on the back burner until things slow down — anyone in business for long enough knows that never happens.
The Bottom Line
Challenges are inevitable, but influential leaders can recognize an opportunity for improvement within the most significant obstacles. Keep yourself focused on the mission and commit to learning and growing as challenges arise.