Adversity and Leadership

The range of human adaptability to adversity continues to astound me. I have been privileged through my professional life to work with patients who are dealing with debilitating illnesses and lead others by example. My recent trips to Haiti have taught me that one’s attitude to adversity can profoundly affect subsequent recovery. And as I watch the trapped Chilean miners work to ensure their own survival, I am inspired by their pragmatism, optimism, and faith.

This weekend in Boston, we are examining the differences between average and great leadership. Central to great leadership is flexibility, the willingness to challenge the status quo, and the ability to engage others toward a common vision. I can only imagine how the miners have organized themselves and allowed leaders to emerge based on the need at the time. In our own lives, we can lead, or be guided by others; work collaboratively or strike out on our own without guidance. During medical training there is an emphasis on individual accountability and perfection. One of the paradigm shifts that physician leaders find uncomfortable is the ambiguity inherent to the task of leading effectively. We all will make mistakes in our assessment of the situation and deal with adverse outcomes. How we learn to integrate those into our subsequent decisions, and not allow them to undermine our confidence, will be the mark of future success.

I am confident that the miners trapped 2500 feet down will be freed. They will have been active participants in leading each other and determining their future. When you are feeling overwhelmed or helpless in your current situation, look upon the confidence of these men and be reenergized. They will soon see the light of day and be symbolically reborn.