How to Be Resilient to Risk and Thrive

I like to say that God Protects the Bold. The organizations that are running headlong into an opportunity instead of just testing the waters are the ones who stand out as leaders of industry. Nobody gets into the position of running a company by being risk-averse.

But beyond competing to win, in order for risk to pay off, you have to go into it while honoring your mission and vision, and respecting those you serve, and recognizing those who are with you.

Take Risks with The Mission In Mind

In the midst of the pandemic last year, instead of treading water, we doubled down on our mission, clarified our priorities, and continued to evolve. Thanks to the risk we took to keep moving forward, our organization experienced 300% financial growth. It was able to provide more opportunities for our communities and grow our team.?

We also experienced significant struggles. We found out we were wrong about some of the opportunities we took and some of the opportunities we gave to others. We made mistakes. We took opportunities and faced challenges that didn't turn out as expected— that's the struggle part of struggling well.?

We could have backed down. We could have shifted our focus to damage control. But we stayed focused on who we are and prevailed. While as a leader, change is not always easy, and it's hard to look at your mistakes objectively. You have to look yourself in the mirror every day and know that you went for it with honor.??

Take Risks with the People In Mind

Everything happened exactly as it was meant to. And thanks to everybody on our team who remained focused on the mission, we had a transformational year. This kind of growth didn't come by chance. It came from hundreds of minds coming together to make room for new ideas - even amongst disagreements- and think differently, find solutions, and put action behind words.?

Our team knows they don't have to compromise their values or keep quiet so as not to ruffle feathers. They can and should speak candidly and voice their expectations without fearing that disagreement will result in a loss of respect or value as a team member.?

When new ideas are met with collaboration and respect, growth and evolution feels less risky. But when disagreements are faced head-on, and people don't shy away from butting heads and find ways to face the challenges, magic can happen. Part of struggling well means it may not always feel comfortable. Still, there should always be security that new ideas and new voices matter and are imperative to growth.

Take Risks with The Future in Mind

We have to believe in where we are going. Our Energy comes from our vision, so it can't be a gimmick. It can't come off as hollow words and ideas, or we won't have the long-term stamina to push ourselves to where we are going.?

We have to be intentional about the unconventional and ask, "What if?. Try a new way. Think differently. That's where we all grow. That's how we will stand out as leaders and innovators in the industry.

Innovation, improvement, and success don't come from playing it safe. In any crisis, there is blame that goes around. It's natural for the finger to be pointed directly at those in charge. It makes true leaders stand out, and weak leaders crumble. If we don't forget why we are here or where we are going, it's just another challenge that turns into an opportunity.

Being resilient to risk is about staying on brand and maintaining your mission and vision, putting others first, having honor and respect, and showing empathy. Building connections that are authentic and can withstand conflict and disagreement will help maintain trust and reputation through the most challenging times and help you continue to thrive.