Clear-Eyed Optimism

When we examine closely the context in which we operate, there sometimes seem to be endless challenges that we need to confront: political, financial, social, organizational—the list goes on. These challenging circumstances are real and must be acknowledged and dealt with. Leaders are clear-eyed about the Current State, but they are also able to see the possibilities of the Future State.

I studied history in college so forgive the historical analogy. Everyone is familiar with the famous painting of George Washington crossing the Delaware. That crossing led to one of the most important victories in the American Revolution. At the time, Washington’s troops were outmanned, outgunned, weak, diseased and hungry in the midst of a cruel winter. Another general might have concluded that he needed to wait until his troops were stronger and better prepared before he launched an o?ensive. General Washington toured his encampments and saw the truly desperate situation of his men. He was clear-eyed and realistic about his Current State.

Nevertheless, he rallied his troops to fight for their families and their liberty. Why? Because he understood that in the midst of a terrible reality, when fear and hopelessness were palpable, his men needed purpose. Because the present was so grim, a focus on the future was necessary.

We must fully understand our Current State. How bad are things really? How bad are they likely to become? What are the worst-case scenarios? Wishful thinking is particularly tempting in a crisis, but it is also particularly counter-productive. Clear-eyed realism is required. We must take the time and have the discipline to fully understand our circumstances - without flinching or sugar-coating the situation. The best decisions are made when we understand where we really are.

It is human nature to become disoriented or depressed or afraid when we realize the daunting nature of our challenges. Then we are paralyzed with indecision. Indecision is deadly in a crisis - sometimes literally so - because time is always of the essence. We must achieve forward momentum. Only a focus on our future can provide this motivation.

A wise leader gathers their team and works with them to define a Future State that can galvanize action. When we emerge from this downturn, we will have built resilience. When we re-open, our customers will be even more loyal. Our donors will remember that we served our clients in a truly di?cult time. When this pandemic is over, we can celebrate the lives that have been saved. We will codify the lessons learned so we are never again caught unprepared.

The Future State must be as clearly delineated and well-understood as the Current State. Every action taken; every decision made is a step toward that future. And when the going gets tough, especially when the going gets tough, a leader points to the future.