The dictionary defines ‘crisis’ as a sequence of events at which the trend of all future events, for better or worse, is determined; a turning point; a time when a difficult decision must be made.

There is no denying we’re living and leading in a very dangerous decade. The global and domestic uncertainty we’re experiencing makes it very challenging to forecast the future and take the actions required to triumph during these turbulent times. However, history tells us that in every era there are leaders who recognize the threats and take advantage of the opportunities.

The reason a business crisis creates the potential for making positive change is because the emergency throws us out of our comfort zone. We no longer have the option to maintain the status quo. When an unexpected and unwanted event occurs, changes have to be made immediately.

Many of the difficulties leaders face in their personal and professional lives are unexpected, so plans to prevent the crisis can’t be made. However, some are self-inflicted because a small problem in the past was allowed to grow into a crisis over time.

I believe it’s helpful for all leaders to make the Serenity Prayer a regular part of their daily routine.

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.

What problems are you ignoring or tolerating that could become a crisis tomorrow?

What can you do outside your comfort zone next week that might prevent a problem from growing into a crisis in the future?

It’s not easy developing the strength and courage to move outside our comfort zones to create new opportunities, but it’s way more difficult to wait till the crisis shows up at our door.

Let’s Get Better. Together! Bill Durkin