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We’ve all had those days when nothing seems to be working or going our way. What do we do when that happens? Most of the leaders I know, keep working in the hopes they’ll get through it, but I’ve found a better way…or three, in fact. Here’s what to do when nothing you’re doing is working for you.
Clarify
Leaders can be known as closet workaholics (or maybe that’s just me) and as such, we tend to work even when there is no more clarity on the actual objective. In this way, our admirable drive to get stuff done can get in the way. What is the real goal that has you working and are you working toward or taking time away from it? Step back and answer that question before you do anymore work.
Take a Breath
Sometimes what you need is a simple break. McDonald’s was right. You do deserve a break today. Give yourself one and breathe for a moment if you’re about to hit that wall at the end of your rope. I’m talking to you here. If you’re a frustrated leader looking at the fact that nothing is working, reading the same line twice, doing the same things three times more, literally stop moving and doing and breathe. Collect yourself and stare at the wall to let your brain catch up to your hands or simply recharge, perhaps even with a new approach.
Change Direction
Doing more of the same is NOT the name of the game. If what you’ve done thus far is not netting you the results you seek, lead yourself in a new direction. Stop, drop, and roll, so to speak. Put out the fire of frustration by stopping what you’re doing, dropping the current direction, and rolling the page, the plan, the team over on its side to see if there is a new approach you could take.
Leaders must be able to lead themselves well before they really have any business leading others and in this sense, learning how to recognize the wall in front of you will keep you from beating your head against it. These efforts will keep you from being frustrated, creating tension on the team, and also completely frustrating those you lead.
I’m Monica Wofford and that’s your Monday Moment. Have a great week, an even better Monday, and of course, stay contagious!
