Embrace the Climb: How Leaders Can Harness Discomfort for Growth and Resilience
You will be uncomfortable as a leader.
It’s everywhere.
– When making hard decisions – During unplanned disruptions – Navigating changes to your teams – Being on the receiving end of tough feedback
But there are two things that reassure me about the discomfort.
- It’s temporary
What you feel today won’t last forever.
And the momentary discomfort usually means progress.
Understanding this can change how you face challenges.
- It’s a chance to learn
On the other side of discomfort is a lesson.
One that can help you, your team, or your strategies.
Lessons you can use for future actions, making you a more effective leader.
My advice to leaders…
– Embrace the discomfort – And learn from it
Discomfort is more than an obstacle, it’s an opportunity for growth and resilience.
As a runner I see a lot of parallels between running and leadership.
And especially when it comes to discomfort.
When I’m on a trail run climbing a hill I’m in the thick of it.
– My legs are burning – I’m trying to catch my breath
But I know at the top of the hill is the other side.
The side I call “free speed” where I can run down with less discomfort (or just a different type).
And I push through because I know the pain is temporary.
Plus, the view. Can’t get enough of this view when you reach the top of that hill.
