Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in a leadership group with like-minded individuals. The focus of the study was learning how to turn adversity into an advantage during times of crisis. 

The study was based on teaching by Dr. John C. Maxwell. In the study, we spent eight weeks learning: 

  • Practical ways to maneuver through times of difficulty and adversity 
  • How to seize the opportunity in a crisis while still leading well 
  • John’s 11 Perspective Principles about Crisis 

As a part of each session, we would discuss how the pandemic was impacting our lives and pray for each other. One member of our group was going through a difficult time. In our last session, she shared how much she has grown during her period of unemployment. 

At our first session, she asked us to pray for her to find employment. She had lost her position and was looking for a job amid the pandemic. As a result of her situation, she had to sell her house and move in with her mother. 

Instead of being bitter and feeling sorry for herself, she was grateful for her lessons learned during this experience.

John Maxwell said, “Challenging times can become the seedbed for personal growth if we will fight against our tendency to take the path of least resistance, and instead choose the path of personal growth.” 

As I listened to her throughout our sessions, I was amazed at her attitude. She was grateful for the experience because it helped her realign her priorities. While her career was important to her, she realized her family and building relationships were more important. 

Although the pandemic had exacerbated her situation, it also brought clarity about her employment options. After attending several webinars related to remote work, she realized she no longer wanted to work in a traditional office environment. As we celebrated completing the study, we also celebrated her new position leading a remote team.  

Maxwell also reminds us, “The lessons you learn from your struggle today might be the life-giving truth that helps someone else years from now – so hold fast to that idea and stay committed to your growth.” Personal growth is never easy. Adversity requires us to move out of our comfort zone. 

“Adversity is prosperity to those who possess a great attitude.”

– John Maxell

Adversity challenges us to look beyond our circumstances. We grow the most and learn our best lessons during difficult times by keeping a good attitude.

Has adversity during a crisis made you stronger? 

#YourLeadershipGuide
Kim


Want to be a better leader during times of crisis? Click HERE to view my free Leading Through Crisis Masterclass and learn how.

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Dr. Kim Moore

About the author

I'm Kim, your Educational Leadership Guide. I equip educational leaders with research-based and experientially learned educational leadership principles and best practices to promote student success.


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