Which Leaders Persevere?

These are complex times in which we need to lead courageously.

I see this in my clients. I have a great deal of respect for the gifts and talents they bring to the table. Their conviction to being authentic leaders with integrity is admirable. I watch them tirelessly working with their various contingencies, offering solutions of compromise, and attempting to hold everyone’s perspectives, hopes, and vision for a desired outcome. Yet, they’re often met with mistrust and, in some cases, incivility. Still, they return again and again to the table, committed to working toward the greater good for all while remaining aligned with the mission.

I’ve asked them why they do what they do and many reply, “Because I know I have something to offer and I can be helpful.” They Persevere!

This is part 2 in the 5-part series on The Power of Perseverance by Diana Gabriel, Certified Strengths Strategy Coach.

Persevering leaders stand out, are memorable and have a significant impact. Click To Tweet

 

Are you a leader who finds yourself frequently changing course midstream, altering your goals as the going gets tough? Are you prone to feeling disillusioned when things go awry? Do you back away when situations become adversarial? Do you lose interest in long-term challenging or controversial projects? Do you lack the power to persevere? Have you created the foundation to persevere?

Alternatively, persevering leaders strengthen their foundation, grow their interests and remain focused on doing the right thing. Their consistent pursuit of gains moves them through the roadblocks that thwart more unprepared leaders. When you persevere, you’re not as deterred by setbacks or letdowns. You’re motivated to embrace, serve and overcome for the sake of the greater good of what’s at stake.

There is a myriad of business success stories about leaders who had a spirit of perseverance and led their companies through crisis, bankruptcy or startup hardship. Steve Jobs and Lee Iacocca had the stamina and vision to save Apple and Chrysler, respectively, from bankruptcy. Jeff Bezos endured the long startup struggle at Amazon. Dan Hesse led Sprint out of the jaws of killer competitors. Not all stories are this dramatic, but the principles of perseverance equally apply. Every company faces trials that call for perseverance in their leaders.

Persevering leaders stand out, are memorable and have a significant impact, usually without commanding the limelight or fanfare. Their energy and attitude are distinct—sometimes refreshing, sometimes demanding. They fall into several categories, each one a vital part of an organization’s path through challenging times.

The Mature and Seasoned Leader

Older leaders are generally wiser, steadier, more focused and more familiar with the causes of success or failure. With age comes wisdom, clarity and more discernment over what corrections need to be made at the leadership level.

Mature leaders have a greater self-awareness. They know their weaknesses and strengths, and how to fine-tune for specific circumstances. They surround themselves with leaders who compliment their strengths and who fill in where their strength is lacking. More confident and diligent about making solid commitments, they strive for the highest levels of accountability. In turn, they do what’s needed, recognizing the call for perseverance.

Are you prone to feeling disillusioned when things go awry? Do you back away when situations become adversarial? Do you lose interest in long-term challenging or controversial projects? Are you self-aware? I’d love to hear from you. You can reach me here and on LinkedIn.