As our world deals with the COVID-19 pandemic, we see that the uncertainty factor can be itself dangerous by causing fear and panic.
A leader’s job in times of crisis is all about alignment, and alignment is about focusing energy. To keep everyone else focused, it’s necessary to lead yourself first. Here are some practical ways to lead yourself.
The brain is wired to look for threats, therefore during a crisis, it’s difficult to stay centered. As a result, the mind runs wild with imagination leading to cognitive fusion and rumination. Cognitive fusion is when you believe every thought. Instead of distinguishing thoughts as opinions or interpretations, they become facts in your mind, which leads to rumination -- worrying about the same thing over and over. Scientists know that rumination can create anxiety and depression.
As much as people are afraid of the coronavirus, we should also beware the blame-virus. In other words, we have to stop blaming the “other” political party, the media, the past or present president for every misunderstanding or disagreement. When the chaos of uncertainty hits, leaders have a responsibility to even out the tone by being a voice of reason and not adding to the blame narrative.
When leading in times of duress, it is essential to be the role model. You must become responsible for your inner narrative as well as the language you use with others. A good rule of thumb is that if your conversation makes you feel hope, peace, well-being or calm, you’re doing a good job. If your conversation promotes division, separation or angst, you need to redirect.
What you focus on expands. It’s easy to focus on the danger. Enlightened leaders how to consciously shift focus to maintain a healthy balance. Instead of talking about what is on the news, make a decision to focus on one positive aspect every single day -- one thing to be grateful for.
If we have learned anything it should be this: A life-threatening virus doesn’t care about your political affiliation, the borders of your country, your gender or the color of your skin. It’s easy to get distracted by politics, negative news and fear, but these distractions do not serve the collective good.
The greatest gift you can offer to your employees is to maintain sangfroid. You can set the example by being a calm presence in the storm when you first take charge of your own mind.