Human progress is tricky. We set goals, we strive to surge forward, and yet growth isn’t always a perfectly linear, upward trajectory. We progress, but then we are also susceptible to backsliding. It’s at this point that we need to be vigilant.
Holding onto the ground you’ve already gained is critical when it comes to moving forward. Knowledge and experience are powerful. Our goal is to always be learning. When we commit to doing so, even the most daunting setbacks become an opportunity to clarify lessons learned and apply our hard-earned wisdom in new ways. It’s when we resist learning and changing that we encounter real reversal. If instead we stay open to embracing new, better responses to hardship, we can maintain our results and break through to greater success.
I’m currently working with a well-funded startup. They’ve been getting a ton of market feedback that what they’re doing isn’t working. They haven’t signed a new customer in a long time. Something is off. One of their key leaders is fighting reality. He’s defensive, frustrated, and spends a considerable amount of time placing blame. Another one of their key leaders is focused on examining matters for the lessons they provide. He’s also diligently exploring new ways to respond and adjust to changing market dynamics. He believes greater results are close, yet he has fully accepted that change is needed to achieve them. He’s trying to find the next, better step for the company. It’s clear which leader is progressing and which one is losing ground.
If you’re seeking to progress in the face of challenge, here are three important actions:
- Recognize what you’ve learned. You have a history of facing challenges. When you first sense a setback is possible, double down on understanding the reality of your circumstances. Don’t gloss over difficult truths; name them and claim them. You’ll then be better prepared to aim your effort.
- Effort the most important gaps. Get to the heart of what’s taking you or your team off track. Is it your behavior? Is it a false narrative? Is your motivation waning? Are you in love with an idea that’s lacking? Is performance off? The more aware you are of what’s wrong, the more you can focus your efforts on what will create change. Motion doesn’t always equal progress. Don’t take comfort in just acting. Act in ways that address the real challenge.
- Affirm how far you’ve come. Unlike mutual fund investments, for leaders, past performance can be an indicator of future results. The more we succeed, the more complex our challenges can become. And, as you move through this test, you’ll gain greater strength.
When an inevitable challenge finds you, don’t lose the ground you’ve gained. Instead, reflect on the capabilities you have and work hard to identify new ways to bring them to bear on the moment. That recombination of your strengths will lead to innovative, forward progress.
Founded in 2004, Lead Star is the company behind New York Times best-sellers SPARK, Leading from the Front, and Bet on You. Our mission is to support our clients in achieving better results through their people. By developing better leaders at every level, we help organizations unlock the essential capabilities needed to elevate their performance.
