Losing Our Footing

One of the greatest fears we as humans have is the fear of the unknown and of uncertainty. Welcome to the year 2020. It has been a year of fear driven by an unknown cure for a virus and the uncertainty and unrest that is plaguing our economy, our country and the world. Steve, an executive at a large international company shared words of wisdom during a recent leadership meeting. He said, “Our team is asking me questions that I can’t answer.” He continued, “We are losing our footing of formal direction”.
 
When leaders can’t offer clarity and visIon, the opportunity for fear and frustration seep into their teams and relationships. That’s why what Steve said next is so important. He said that his goal was to be there to listen to the many unanswerable questions and to let each person know that they have been heard. While Steve could not offer solutions to the uncertainty during this difficult time, he could offer empathy. He listened and he understood their concerns. It is important during these days to stop and listen to those that we lead as well as to those that we love.
 
No one knows what tomorrow will bring, but everyone can listen and understand the plight of someone who is struggling. While we may not have the convenience of formal direction, walking with one another through times of uncertainty allows us to find the sure footing of support and understanding. 
 
Choose to validate the struggle of those around you and together we will make a difference.

Larry