10 Ways To Lead Courageously Today

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Trying Times

“The world is not dangerous because of those who do harm, but because of those who look at it without doing anything.” — Albert Einstein

These are tedious, challenging, and dangerous times filled with disinformation, division, anger, intolerance, and hatred. Yet, we, as a collective, must refuse to be silent or fearful during these times.?Instead, we must be relentless in holding firm to the moral compass and upholding justice, hope and courage. Leaders must understand and willingly use their power. James Baldwin once wrote, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced."

Leaders and aspiring leaders must understand the urgency of this moment and be courageous, knowing that the intolerant is boisterous and fearful, and their hate is intended to paralyze others into inaction and apathy. As a result, leaders must courageously take sides because indifference favors the oppressors.

“We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented.” — Elie Wielsel

Here are ten things you should consider doing right away:

1. Do not lose hope. Do not allow the present challenges and issues to derail or cloud your purpose, vision, judgment, and direction.

2. Convert your anger into energy. Use that energy intentionally for gain and good.

3. Devote time to education. Know your rights. Commit to learning and understanding the intricacies of the system and the difference between law and justice.

4. Build and confirm your network of allies. Look for those speaking up on your behalf and those who are not. Also, build your community within the legal and law enforcement community.

5. Regulate your information intake. It is perfectly normal to step away from any information that is feeding your anger, fears, or worry. When that is not possible, try practicing cognitive dissonance.

6. Get involved. Participate in governance and voting. Understand the problems and start working on getting people who represent and understand your concerns on the ballot. Encourage the next generation to get involved.

7. Listen, engage and interact with others. Specifically, seek out those who are not like you or don't look like you to hear their stories. By listening, you understand more and thereby grow to be more empathetic.

8. Decolonize your bookshelf. This moment is the perfect time to learn more about current issues from diverse perspectives. Read more books that challenge your view and understanding. Discover experts in your field with different experiences and allow their insights to challenge your thoughts and beliefs.

9. Mentor the next generation. One of the most impactful recommendations because mentoring provides both parties, the mentor and mentee, the opportunity to learn and grow together. If you can commit to a few hours every week, I recommend getting involved in mentoring and volunteering with organizations or community outreaches that are focused on building up the next generation.

10. Nurture your strength. Maintain your power source, say your prayers, and lean on your faith, friends, and family as you take care of yourself so you can lead courageously.

Originally published:? 10 Ways To Lead Courageously In Tense Times (forbes.com)

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A Hybrid leader: American-born, British Trained, and Nigerian Raised. Leadership Psychologist, Inclusion Strategist, and Executive Coach KornFerry ?| Follow me on Twitter?Dr. Flo Falayi