Reflection:
If you know me, you know that I will always encourage you to be proactive rather than reactive. To be proactive is to be prepared. But what happens when we need to react? Even the best of us can get caught off guard, and how we react can define our leadership.
If you are explosive and angry, you are not going to be approachable.
As leaders, we set the tone. How we react to people and the challenges ahead will be the difference maker.
Let’s not be emotional reactors, but leaders that are grounded on principles and values. People matter and mess-ups are not the end all.
Lead with grace and think on these.
1.) Pause
We want to respond not just react. Pausing leads to thinking before speaking. Practice calmness.
2.) Ask questions
Seek to understand. Don’t jump to conclusions. Practice empathy.
3.) Encourage
Use the opportunity to add value. Be helpful and create a growing and learning environment. Don’t diminish people. Practice lifting up.