Leadership and the Art of Anticipation

"I have been through some terrible things in my life, some of which actually happened."

– Mark Twain

Picture this. You're twelve again, and the anticipation of your first roller coaster ride has been building for weeks. As the days counted down, the thrill increased. On the day itself, your heart was pounding like a drum, fear and excitement churning in your belly. The roaring of the coaster echoed in your ears as you stood in the seemingly never-ending queue, your heartbeat matching the rhythm.

Now think back to the moment you stepped off the ride. Was it as terrifying as you'd imagined? The odds are, it wasn't. The roller coaster, despite its twists and turns, was an exhilarating ride that left you breathless, eager for another round.

You've likely faced situations where the thought of making certain decisions, or leading a project, or even addressing your team on critical issues made your stomach churn with anxiety. The anticipation was paralyzing. But, just like the roller coaster, when you finally took the step, it wasn't as horrific as you'd imagined.

Fear, anxiety, and overthinking about potential outcomes often prevent us from seeing the situation clearly and making strategic decisions. You have the power to transform the fear of anticipation into action. Rather than getting stuck in the 'what ifs' and possible negative outcomes, strategic thinking pushes you to anticipate positively and prepare for different scenarios. It is about seeing the bigger picture and guiding your team towards it.

Sometimes overthinking potential outcomes can cloud our judgment. But here's the good news: you can turn that worry into action. Strategic thinking allows you to view situations positively, preparing you for anything that comes your way. Your main job? Leading your team towards a larger vision.

Open conversations with your team are crucial. Discuss issues, delve into problems, and brainstorm for solutions. Let everyone have a say - the next big idea could come from the most unexpected places.

Embrace a learning culture. Mistakes are part of the journey. Instead of fearing them, view them as stepping stones to success and encourage your team to do the same.

Plan and be prepared. Break your goals down into manageable tasks. A clear roadmap guides your team, helping them navigate challenges and work towards the end goal. It also fuels motivation and instills a sense of purpose.

Remember, strategic thinking isn't about predicting the future; it's about influencing it. Let anticipation drive you to action rather than fear. It's the journey, with all its twists and turns, that counts - just like that roller coaster ride from your childhood.