To Win ...Turn Obstacles Upside Down !

Strange mindsets. The moment the human mind perceives or is made aware of a problem, survival instinct takes over and the mind starts working, consciously or unconsciously to find a protective solution. So strong is the instinct that the person fails to even recognize the likely impediments that would come in the way of its progress. Sometimes, these solutions therefore come with greater danger than the likely solutions that it could bring.

Even seasoned leaders.Some such seasoned leaders I know, instantly begin their action journeys without even taking into consideration, any likely impediments that could hamper their progress. It is as if they genuinely believe that no impediments will ever touch or hamper their progress to the goal.

That in a way, is good news. But not really so.They maniacally begin with the end in mind and don't give a 'penny' - for the likely impediments that may come their way. They may call it confidence, I call it suicidal bravado. This is not actually, the best behavioural narrative that describes a successful leader .

The fact is that our goal driven actions may have to face different impediments is a reality and some of these impediments may be even beyond the capacity of the leaders facing the challenges or their ability to handle adverse situations that they have failed to foresee.

The reality : one's action journey can and generally will be impeded by all the likely adverse impediments that would come its way. That the Stoic philosophers believed strongly in much before some Mr. Murphy made it into a popular quote in contemporary Management literature.. Whilst that is true, what cannot be ever impeded are one's intentions or dispositions. Human Mind adapts and converts to its own purposes all the obstacles that impede its actions.

The Stoics believed that impediments to action actually advances action. What stands in the way - actually , becomes the way!!! Marcus - the Stoic philosopher was so estute when he shared this secret of success - ' Turn Obstacles Upside Down '. This is literally like 'acting with a Reverse Clause'. You are a leader. People depend on you , your choices and your decision. You cannot therefore be unmindful of the likely 'other' way out from the problems if impediments hit them action journey.

'To act with a Reverse Clause' is to always find out and be prepared for another way or route out of the situation and plan of action undertaken becomes endangered or things become adverse.

Every obstacle has on opportunity waiting to be conquered and for you to thence emerge a 'hero'. Remember .. leadership is tested for success on the adverse slopes when you fall and not on straight terrains when you leisurely strall.