Leading Through Moments of Pain

Life is full of painful moments. Whether you’re enduring one, recovering from one, or preparing to face one, pain is an unavoidable part of the human experience. But pain also holds the potential for transformation—if we’re willing to look beyond our discomfort and focus on those we lead and serve.

During a scorching summer day, I stood at a graveside, sweating profusely in a suit. Suddenly the funeral director informed me that he was going to get an extra shovel so that I could help fill the grave. The shock of the moment caused me to disconnect from the pain that the grieving family was feeling. It was only a few weeks later when I received a thank-you card from the family thanking me for being there in their moment of loss. Their appreciation reminded me that powerful moments often come in times of pain. How often, as leaders, do we disconnect from the pain of others because of our own circumstances?

As leaders, we have an opportunity to create meaningful moments out of the pain of those we lead. Here are three simple suggestions:

1. See the Person

It’s easy to lose the person in the percentages. You’re worried about customer satisfaction scores, churn rates, staffing, and payroll. But don’t forget that in the middle of it all, is a person. Every contract written, product sold, email sent, ad placed, has an individual person attached to it. Leadership is about people, not metrics. What could change in your organization and leadership if you just see the person?

2. See the Pain

There are people that you lead, that you employ, manage, or have relationship with that are in pain and you don’t even recognize it. We have become so conditioned to the chaos of our demands that it’s normal. Take the time to notice when others are struggling. A compassionate response can create trust and loyalty.

3. See the Potential

There is so much potential for impact during moments of pain. Moments of pain hold untapped potential to inspire, comfort, and transform. I encourage you today to see the people that are around you. See the pain that they are experiencing, and the potential that you have to make a difference. This is what separates you from the competition.

Painful moments can also create meaningful and transformative moments in your leadership growth. The key is to be present, empathetic, and willing to take action.

What painful moments can you transform today?

Watch the video below to learn more