Leading In Complexity: Landing a Max 9

For this article by Jo Ilfeld, Executive Leadership Coach on leading in complexity the image shows a plane landing

Leading in complexity is paramount. In turbulent times, it’s crucial to remain steady.

Nothing illustrates that better than the recent incident with the Max 9s, where part of the airplane malfunctioned mid-flight.

I used this scenario recently with a client, who was struggling with a major reorg they were overseeing. They expressed how hard it was for them to think about getting their team on board with all the changes that were needed.

In a reorg, familiar structures and relationships can suddenly vanish, leaving leaders to guide their teams through uncertain terrain. Much like the pilots and flight attendants on the Max 9 who remained calm when the piece of the plane flew off mid-flight, leaders must maintain composure to steer their teams safely to the next phase.

Which is why you need a resilience strategy.

Whether it’s a workout, deep breathing, or laughing with friends, find what keeps you grounded and your nervous system steady.

Freaking out about the changes won’t help anyone. Instead, focus on making smart decisions and supporting your team through the transition.

Embrace strategies that work for you, because things aren’t going to get less complex.

What strategy do you have to help you ‘land the plane?’

Read more: Tough Questions and Why You Should Ask Them

Jo Ilfeld, PhD

An executive leadership coach, Jo helps C-suite leaders, executives, and high-potential managers develop the flexibility, skill, and frame of mind to meet the challenges of the next five, ten, twenty years…. and beyond. She works with individuals, teams and organizations on four core areas of leadership development. Check out Jo's bio page for more information.

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