I’ve previously blogged about how the situations of adversity can lead to opportunities for growth and development – about how pearls begin life as irritants and frustrations, and about how incredibly high heat can turn a simple clay pot into exquisite porcelain. But as quick as I am to point out the gains that can arise from difficulties, it is also worth noting that there can also be another, not so positive, outcome. Pressure has the ability to create both diamonds and dust.
Which leader are you?
Which is also a great metaphor for how you can choose to deal with workplace pressure situations. The reality of today’s workplace is that pressure is a common occurrence. How you choose to cope with the pressure will determine whether you end up a diamonds or dust. You can either look at it face on, as a positive, as an opportunity to prove to the world what you are capable of … ergo create diamonds. Or you can hide and hope the problem will fade away (or someone else will deal with it) and become a victim of the situation … the metaphoric equivalent of dust.
As a leader, you will encounter a vast array of pressure situations. If you can focus on finding a way to resolve the situation or at least mitigate it, your outcome will be closer to diamonds. Whatever you do, don’t fall into the fear trap that paralyzes you … that will result in dust.
Which direction will you choose to go in? Coping with pressure can be difficult so share your ideas. What do you do to stay sane in pressure-filled situations? Let’s learn from one another. Please comment below.