In the midst of complexity, we will encounter technical problems, adaptive challenges, and times when we are just not certain how to proceed. At moments like this, I am often asked the following question: “What do we do now?”
And my answer is pretty straight forward: “Live with the question. Wait for the answer.”
Many people in leadership positions focus on action as the primary way in which they demonstrate that they are a leader. They want to charge forward and fix all the problems and solve all the puzzling situations. However, at some point they will come upon a situation when this action oriented form of leadership doesn’t work. Or they will encounter a problem that is so complex and dynamic that they are unsure of what to do next. Then, the choice is to wait.
This action of living with the question and waiting for the answer is not a choice between action or non-action. It is a choice of a different form of action and one that many leaders are unfamiliar with and, frankly, uncomfortable with.
On the outside, living with a question and waiting for an answer looks like nothing is happening. However, as I have learned after 35 years of doing this work, the inner work of living with a question and waiting for an answer involves a great deal of deep work and deep thinking. It involves a period of thoughtful discernment and reflection. It also involves a weighing of options and possible choices to be made while considering the impact - primary, secondary and tertiary - of each of these choices and options. And finally, it involves the development of clarity around whether or not a choice will set precedence within the organization or the market place.
In short, living with a question and waiting for an answer is a powerful leadership choice. It is based on the understanding that preparing for action is as powerful as the choice of action. By creating time and space for thoughtful and purposeful waiting, one comes to understand that the development of inner stillness and clarity are the only way through dynamic complexity. Inner clarity is the precursor to outer action. Knowing that one does not know how to proceed is a sign of authentic and mature leadership.
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