Be Ready For The Unexpected

Despite my best intentions in any particular area of my life – “stuff” happens and the unexpected occurs.

How I deal with the unexpected is great feedback about the strength of my leadership mindset and my relationship with myself.

Do I remain cool, calm and collected? Am I emotionally and intellectually grounded? Do I respond constructively? Am I purposeful? Do I remain aware of the effect of how I am showing up on the people in my life? Am I keeping commitments – with others and myself?

Or, when the unexpected occurs, do I go into denial or resistance? Do I feel emotionally and intellectual scattered and unclear? Do I choose a destructive response inconsistent with my stated intentions (my greater purpose)? Do I burn relationship bridges or leave them in disrepair rather than being proactive and engaging?

Here are some tips for being ready for the unexpected:

➢ Regular “self-maintenance” is key – not just on an emotional level but on all levels; being active physically, intellectually, creatively, emotionally and in other ways that you value.

I urge you to make these habits rather than mere wishes:

o Learning about yourself (becoming more emotionally self-aware)
o Stimulating your intellect (not just at work)
o Being physically active to promote overall health
o Expanding your social and relationship building skills
o Laughing and being fun

You may not have control over everything in life, but you have sufficient control over yourself to avoid going into reaction and feeling surprised and unprepared when there is something unexpected to handle.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle

➢ Remain conscious of the needs of the people around you. Genuine leaders are invested in the well-being, growth and success of colleagues, friends, community members and family.

If you are not emotionally, intellectually, creatively, physically, etc., in-tune with yourself, how do you intend to successfully fulfill your role as a leader and contribute to the enrichment of your peoples’ lives?

Assuming you have made “self-care” a habit, there are still those times it seems to be not enough. Here, the trick is to be less “self-conscious” and more “other conscious”. What might you do to help someone else along his or her path – the most rewarding gift you’ll ever give?

“ A man wrapped up in himself makes a very small bundle.” – Benjamin Franklin