HUGE LEADERSHIP LESSONS FROM TINY LITTLE LEADERS

Coaching Strategies on Leading During Uncertain Times

We can learn a lot about restarting our businesses as a result of COVID 19 from the tiniest of creatures the ant. Even when presented with larger-than-life tasks, this resilient worker tirelessly does its best without giving up. Adaptability and flexibility are ingrained in an ant's DNA, and they rely on the collective efforts of those around them to achieve their goals.
 
What are the biggest lessons we can learn right now from these tiny powerhouses? The ant's interdependent culture adapts when obstacles present themselves. Each grain of sand moved in constructing their cities brings them closer to achieving their vision. No matter what, the ant relentlessly moves forward. They refuse to get discouraged, they refuse to stay overwhelmed, they just keep working!

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THREE TIPS TO RESTART YOUR BUSINESS

​How can we apply the wisdom of the ant to our current situation? We can choose to see the obstacles COVID19 has presented us and give up, or we can re-evaluate what is most important and create a NEW action map to further our mission and vision. Here are three powerful ideas to get you started:

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1. Re-evaluate your values  We are being propelled into a massive change unlike that of any other time in history. The majority of businesses throughout the world have been disrupted. It is critical to re-evaluate what is most important to you and create values that guide your thoughts and beliefs. Having this clarity will enable you to move those grains of sand so you can build your empire.

2. Express your vision. Having the clarity of why you got into business in the first place and how your product delivers on a specific need is contagious. Ask yourself, “What can we do to serve our customers in this time of great suffering?” Leading with enthusiasm and conviction will set the tone for your staff to follow suit. Expressing your vision frequently will inspire them to lead themselves in furthering the mission.

Inspiration -vs- Motivation
People often use the terms "inspire" and "motivate" interchangeably. Conceptually they may seem related, but in fact, they are worlds apart. "Inspire" translates to "in spirit." Inspiration comes from within. The root word of "Motivate" is "motive," which is an external force that causes us to take -action. Motivation pushes you to accomplish a task, or work through a difficult event, even when you would rather be doing anything else. We are motivated by a result.

Inspiration pulls you towards something that stirs your heart, mind, or spirit. We are inspired by a person, an event, or a circumstance. Leaders become inspired when they are crystal clear about “who” they are and “why” they are doing “what” they are doing. Having clarity on their identity, these visionaries inspire their teams into action.

3. Be nimble. Most of us can agree that creating an action map for your business is an important and effective step. The challenge can be knowing when to be flexible in altering that strategy. Learn from the ant and adapt to your environment. Beware of remaining stubborn and certain about an old plan. Today’s business environment requires that we are nimble when the situation calls for it.  We are in a time of massive change, and the way we used to do things is no longer an option. Model the way that the ant adapts to winter and you will soon thrive in the summer business season.

RECALIBRATE  
ACCELERATE PERFORMANCE
MASTER ANXIETY • ADVANCE CAREER • MAXIMIZE REVENUE GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a near-total shutdown of social and economic activity in all corners of the world. Restarting economies and life will be the defining challenge of our time. With no modern precedent, executives must create action maps that will guide them in the next critical months ahead. You don’t have to go through this business disruption by yourself. Leverage the power of an outsider’s point of view to relaunch.
 

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Lead with Clarity