Stop waiting and start doing: leading through times of uncertainty

By: Kendra Holland, CCE, ICD.D , Interim CEO, connectFirst Credit Union

As I step back into my role as Interim CEO at connectFirst Credit Union, I am compelled to reflect on the challenges and triumphs that defined my teams’ collective experiences in 2023. It was undoubtedly a year of resilience. Together, we confronted formidable challenges, navigated through chaotic circumstances, and emerged stronger. Our collective strength, both as individuals and as a team, shines as a testament to our capabilities.

It seems we’ve been operating in a continual state of the unknown for far too long: from trying to crystal-ball our way through unprecedented economic pressures to pursuing a monumental and historic merger amid unforeseen circumstances. Yet, beneath these challenges, we've authentically grown, providing a robust foundation for the future.

A cornerstone of our ability to manage and lead through these times of uncertainty has no doubt been our focus on our journey. As cliché and trite as that may sound, I believe that our team has stopped focusing on the destination, realizing that as the goalposts keep shifting and changing, the constant mental readjustments are simply too much.

It’s human nature to want to feel in control. When we lose a sense of control it can be demotivating and even derailing. But when we focus on controlling things that are within our sphere of influence, we begin to find a renewed sense of purpose and focus – ultimately giving our minds a much-needed break.

I’m not implying that mental rest means we’re not productive or working diligently towards a goal, quite the opposite. This mental clarity allows us to better understand how we’re going to get to where we need to be, thereby making us that much more efficient and eager to achieve the path we’ve chartered.

As we dive into 2024, I’d encourage everyone not to delay decisions or activities because the end is unknown. Keep going. Think differently about uncertainty: when you don’t have many answers that’s when the best innovation can happen to help future-proof success, regardless of what the destination looks like.?

Shed your self-doubt and limiting beliefs. I draw insight from Brene Brown's question, "What is the story I am telling myself about this?" which serves as a powerful tool to shift hindering thoughts. Focus on the truth of the journey—the path ahead is not only reasonable, but achievable.