We’re seeing changes piled upon changes right now across the world, across industries, and in politics. It's unsettling at best, and sometimes it can make us feel completely at a loss.
Within an organization, it can happen when a new leader has different priorities, legislation changes, or a market shift throws months of planning into question. We may understand perfectly well why the change is happening and still feel frustrated, disappointed or worried about what comes next.
For senior leaders, there's an added complication. Your team is looking to you for direction, while you're still trying to sort out your own reactions and figure out what the changes mean. I've found it helps to take a little time to get your bearings before deciding what to do next. Here are five questions that might help.
1. What's bothering me most?
Give yourself an honest answer. Are you frustrated about losing control of a project? Worried about your team's future? Annoyed that decisions were made without your input? Naming what's troubling you can help you understand why the situation feels difficult.
2. What do I actually know?
Separate the facts from the rumours, assumptions and worst-case scenarios that can take up residence in your head.
What’s actually been decided? What's still uncertain? What do you need to find out?
3. Where do I still have influence?
You may have little say over the decision itself, but you still have choices about how you respond.
Think about what you can do to help your team, contribute to the next steps or shape how the change is implemented.
4. Who can help me think this through?
A conversation with a trusted colleague, mentor or coach can help you see things differently. Choose someone who will listen, ask good questions and give you an honest perspective.
You may find that simply talking through the situation helps you decide what matters most.
5. What does my team need from me right now?
Your team may be wondering what the changes mean for their jobs, their work or their future. Think about what you can tell them, what you need to find out and when you'll check in again.
You can be honest about the answers you don't have and still be someone your team can count on.
Give yourself a little room
One thing I've learned is that even experienced leaders can feel knocked sideways by unexpected changes. It takes time to make sense of what's happened, especially when you've invested a lot in the direction things were heading. Give yourself a chance to find your footing. You'll be in a better position to help others find theirs.
Kate Fagan Taylor is an executive coach and management consultant with GrowthPoints Strategies. She works with leaders across Canada as they navigate change, leadership transitions and complex organizational challenges.