Adaptability is key

I love holidays and all the traditions it brings with family and friends. The smiles, laughter and joy each person has during this time is something I look forward to.

This 4th of July holiday was different with all that has happened over the last few months. There were no large gatherings for fireworks and some family and friends are not comfortable gathering at this time. We were going to experience a holiday in a different way than we had in the past. Knowing all of this, my vision for this holiday remained the same - enjoy the time with others, laugh, smile and appreciate all of it.

As we prepared for the weekend we knew we had to adapt and shift from the normal holiday traditions. Instead of watching fireworks from a park with hundreds, we sat in a parking lot watching them outside of our cars with only our kids and two grandsons. When we met with friends we gave less hugs and socialized with some distance between us. We opted for a small family gathering rather than the large (sometimes 50 or more people) group we usually have at our house. Each activity shifted from years before but the vision remained the same. Enjoy the time, laugh, smile and appreciate it all!

As leaders we have to continue to adapt without losing sight of the vision. We can do this by continuing to ask ourselves the following questions:

1. Have I reviewed my vision and am I still aligned to it?

2. Have I reflected on how I respond during times of change? Does this impact my behavior?

3. Am I willing to shift and adapt?

4. Does my team know the vision?

5. Have I discussed how goals may have shifted?

6. Do I need to coach my team members on adapting during times of change?

Adapting may not always easy but it is necessary in a constantly changing world. Leaders who are able to adapt and keep a vision in front of their teams are able to keep their teams moving forward.