Thursday, February 12, 2009

Of Bricks, Crisis and Leadership

“A successful (person) is one who can lay a firm foundation with the bricks others have thrown at (them).” Each and every one of us has these metaphorical bricks being hurled at us, and sometimes it feels like the frequency, volume and velocity are ever increasing. If it isn’t our coworkers it’s the competition, if not the competition it’s our clients. And currently we face a new, and potentially more lethal, cluster of bricks in the form of this financial crisis. Enough all ready! The truth is, in business and in life we will always face difficulties. Our perspective will determine whether we see opportunity or an insurmountable obstacle. As leaders we must choose to build a strong foundation, and that is even more vital during crisis. But it isn’t just our own foundation that needs constructing; we need to be building the foundation of our team, our department, our company and especially our community.

Whether you’re just looking to begin the construction phase of your building project or maybe you’re planning some remodeling, I encourage you to consider bringing a seasoned “general contractor” on board who has experience walking with your peers through similar endeavors.