The only constant is change...

Leadership development is a multifaceted journey, and one crucial aspect is learning to navigate change. But let's be real: How many of us actually enjoy change? And let's get even more real: How many of us have learned how to navigate change well?

Leadership development has many aspects, and learning to manage change is an important one. Yet, how many of us are truly comfortable with change? As leaders, it's our responsibility to accept change, embrace it, and guide our teams through it.

This is where having a risk-taking mindset comes in. A "Risk-Taking Mindset" means being comfortable with uncertainty and actively choosing to pursue opportunities that involve potential negative outcomes, often with the belief that the potential rewards outweigh the risks and that learning from failures is valuable for future growth. It's a mindset that can lead to exciting new opportunities and professional and personal growth, even if it means facing potential setbacks.

Below are a few key aspects of risk-taking:

  • Comfort with uncertainty: Accepting that not all outcomes will be predictable and being okay with potential negative results. 

  • Calculated decision-making: Evaluating the potential risks and rewards before taking action, not just blindly taking chances. 

  • Growth mindset: Viewing failures as learning opportunities and using them to improve future decisions. 

  • Proactive approach: Actively seeking out opportunities to challenge oneself and step outside one's comfort zone. 

  • Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep trying despite potential failures. 

  • Ownership and accountability: Taking responsibility for the consequences of one's decisions, both positive and negative. 

 As you read through the list, ask yourself. How would my life be different – both personally and professionally, if I was “rocking” it in each aspect? And then ask yourself how would programmatic outcomes be different if staff were rocking it in each element?

 Does this sound intriguing? If so, contact me at deidre.harris@teamagreements.com to learn how I can support your and your staff’s professional development.

Deidre Harris