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Resilience for executives - Certainty in uncertainty

Resilience is the ability of individuals and groups to overcome adversity. We strengthen physical endurance if we exercise systematically and in the same way we strengthen mental strength if we train the resilient muscle. Resilience is not necessarily about hardening oneself with a smile on one's face through a difficult period, but about acknowledging difficulties but still finding inner motivation, hope and optimism to keep going. Here you will find good advice and exercises that will help you train your resilient muscle and be an encouragement to others.

1. Imagine the end and the steps to get there

What is the company's vision and how do you get there? Set yourself a clear and realistic end goal and outline the steps that will get you there. Focus on the next step instead of focusing on the end goal.

Exercise:

Grab a pen and paper and ask yourself: What is the current status of the company and where do we want to go? Write down one clear and realistic end goal, with timing.

Break the goal down into smaller goals, the guards on the way, that's the guide. Focus on the small goals instead of just looking at the end goal. Remember that the "all or nothing" mindset is not sustainable, it is better to keep in mind that two steps back and one step forward is better than giving up.

Sit comfortably in private. Close your eyes and allow yourself to see how you step each step, reach each guard and finally reach the finish line. How do you feel when you reach each stage individually? Let yourself see the real situation for yourself.  

View obstacles along the way - How are you going to overcome them?

Examine the uncertainty and consider possible obstacles to set goals. Instead of focusing on the obstacles themselves, focus on how you will deal with the challenges. Adaptability and resourcefulness are the key to a solution-oriented approach.

Exercise:

What could possibly prevent your goals from being achieved? List all possible ways to overcome obstacles that may arise towards the set goal, consider how you are going to respond to the challenges and find solutions. 

3. Select forward-facing binoculars

Choose the optimistic and hopeful telescope instead of the pessimistic one when looking ahead. It's not about ignoring negative thoughts, but focusing on what might go well instead of focusing on what might go wrong. It is easier to look for negative thoughts than positive ones, which is why it is important to train your thinking. Optimism and positivity increase creativity and encourage solution-oriented thinking.

Exercise:

What is the best thing that could happen? What are the opportunities in the current situation? Are there opportunities ahead? How can we make the most of the situation and even come out stronger? Think about the answers to this yourself, but it is even more powerful to have these conversations with partners and staff, where all ideas are welcome on the table.

4. Believe in yourself and the team

Have faith in yourself, your company and your staff. Show understanding for yourself and others and focus on building staff confidence, for example by providing constructive feedback, compliments when appropriate and noticing and strengthening staff strengths. Give employees the opportunity to express their opinions, make an impact, be part of conversations that touch on the company's vision and be involved in the decisions that are made. Vocational training, education and support from others increases confidence in one's own abilities.  

5. Create a strong support network

A strong support network can seize managers and staff in times of uncertainty. Think about your own support network - who provides you guidance and support? What motivates you to move forward? Can employees seek support in the workplace? Build an atmosphere of trust and you can talk honestly and honestly about what is going on at any given time. Build trust by listening to the needs of the staff and responding to the best of your ability.

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