When the Wind Blows

This weekend my wife and I celebrated her birthday at the beautiful Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center in National Harbor, MD (just south of Washington, DC). Our Friday morning travels included driving in the rain but the afternoon provided an even more challenging weather phenomenon...wind and lots of it. In fact, the local forecasters mentioned gusts clocked at nearly 60 mph and we can attest to the wind’s incredible power.

An afternoon walk through the commercial district next to our resort became an exercise in personal determination and stamina. There were times when the wind blew so hard it was difficult to maintain ones balance and on at least one occasion we were both stopped in our tracks by a mighty blast that roared off the Potomac River and through the street. I must confess to being somewhat stunned by the experience and can now understand the challenges faced by reporters who cover hurricanes when the winds are gusting even harder. We finally conceded defeat and returned to our hotel room until the winds relented later in the evening.

Leaders face similar personal and professional challenges that make it hard to proceed with plans and goals. The winds of change are just as persistent and powerful, creating constant challenges for us to overcome. Opponents of our ideas may be implacable and tenacious as they push for their own agenda. Employees can seem incessant in their complaints as they defend their turf or protect valuable company resources.

How does a leader stand firm in ones convictions and unswerving in ones chosen path? What happens if you are stopped in your tracks by that unexpected obstacle or blown off course by unforeseen circumstances? My wife and I chose to capitulate because there wasn’t anything major at stake. Our weekend trip would not be lost because an afternoon walk wasn’t fully completed. But the choices leaders make often carry enormous consequences. Pushing ahead against the wind may be a necessary course of action. It will require discipline, persistence, and stamina.

Too many of our prominent leaders (including many politicians) lack the resolve to stay the course when the winds of opposition appear. They either duck for cover or formally accede to popular opinion. This approach doesn’t serve anyone very well. In the face of unrelenting obstacles leaders must demonstrate an ability to lean in, fight the urge to give up, and find the courage to invite others to join them. When the wind blows (and we know it will) stand firm, guard your principles, and let everyone know this too shall pass.