Sometimes we get caught up in the chaos of life that surrounds us every moment of every day. It’s easy to get anxious, burned out, and overwhelmed. We can lose sight of the blessings in our life and spend precious time worrying about all the bad things that might happen or doing the classic “would’a, should’a, could’a,” to ourselves.
As leaders, it’s imperative that we don’t allow ourselves to get caught up in the chaos and negativity of the day. Others look to us for guidance and if we are down on ourselves, complaining, or worrying, we bring them into that negativity too. Leaders carry the responsibility of setting the tone for the team, one of possibilities, triumph and hope. With hope is the ability to move forward and produce positive outcomes. A leader and a team that can do this will always make a difference in the world.
Leaders must be strong like the mountain that stands tall, proud and firmly anchored. The wind and the rain and the sun beat down relentlessly but still the mountain stands regal and unmoving. Time is relentless as it approaches the mountain unceasingly, passes over it and moves beyond. Time brings the changes of the seasons and all of life’s trials but the mountain is calm and steady. It does not worry about what time will bring and it does not dwell on what has passed. The mountain simply lives in the moment.
Emulating the mountain is a simple tool leaders can use to maintain composure during stressful and worrisome times. Instead of getting caught up in the negativity, take a deep breath and see yourself as the mountain, standing tall and proud. Let the day’s problems come to you as they may. Don’t worry about the “what ifs” or regret what went wrong yesterday. Focus on the moment. Ask, “What can we do right now?”
This one question makes all the difference for when we are moving and producing, we are not over thinking and not worrying. This simple yet powerful question, “What can we do right now?” will set the tone for all to follow and it will be one of possibilities and hope.