Proverbs 18.14 observes that attitude is everything! Actually, a positive attitude helps me be resilient in the face of challenges. Thus, emotional energy fuels resilience.
The Precept Explained
Emotional energy can carry me through a challenging experience, such as an illness, according to Proverbs 18.14.
In addition, emotional energy keeps me from being overwhelmed by circumstances.
I maintain my energy by keeping a forward-looking perspective.
As such, I will see a way forward.
In fact, in Proverbs 17.22, we read that emotional energy is like taking medicine. Conversely, a broken spirit will eat me up inside.
A positive attitude is good medicine, but a broken spirit causes me to wither inside. Proverbs 17.22 paraphrase
So, when broken, take time for refresh in order to renew emotional energy.
Building Emotional Energy
Moreover, the attitude described in Proverbs 17.22 is one that sees the good, thus is optimistic, Proverbs 15.13. Also, it means to rejoice, Proverbs 5.18. And, to see light, Proverbs 13.9.
So, without becoming arrogant, I should enjoy what I have accomplished, Ecclesiastes 3.12 and 3.22.
The good medicine of a thankful and optimistic character can heal a broken spirit!
Leadership Insight
I get that it’s easy to be forward looking when revenue and market share are growing. Clearly, growth fuels optimism.
Conversely, it’s much more challenging to have a “merry heart” when facing challenges such as a world-wide pandemic.
Actually, in out-of-control situations like that, it seems the only ones enjoying the downturn are the short-sellers and telephone con-men!
So then, some situations are uncontrollable.
Thus, the 100-year flood or other black swan type of event.
That is, they’re impossible to anticipate but their impact is severe.
Organizational Resilience
So, how do leaders see a way forward under such circumstances?
Well, it’s always nice if you haven’t been struggling during the boom times. Thus, if you’re over-leveraged and struggling for market share you’ve got systemic problems that were made worse by the one-off event.
So, what to do? First be realistic. Then, share that realism with the organization. Also, be optimistic and encouraging rather than fatalistic.
More importantly, the leader should be aware of his or her own level of emotional reserves. Else, the leader is at risk of making a serious mistake when responding to the media or to stakeholders.
Remember, a good attitude helps more that my emotional well-being. Why? Because it allows me to think clearly by seeing other options.
In short, I’m better prepared to see a way forward when I care for my own emotional well-being.
Apply This Today!
Emotional energy fuels resilience when I take the time to refill my emotional energy. Thus, there’s great value to “sharpening the saw” through self care.
Additionally, high-stress situations require leaders to be especially self-aware, as well as watchful of their responses.
Fortunately or unfortunately, I tend to find what I’m looking for and see what I expect to see. So, a high level of emotional energy and grateful attitude help maintain my ability to function most effectively as a leader.
What do you think? Send me a comment: larrydaleyoung@gmail.com