The Quarantine Quartz
Hey all CEOs out there, trapped in COVID solitude: You have a unique window of opportunity at this very moment. Self-isolation may sharpen your senses and unleash creativity. We are in the midst of the crisis, and this is exactly the time to plan for what is next. Use all your imagination in listening to the sound of silence.
Let us admit: we will not get a more distinct chance. In all its brutality, COVID will allow for no leader to hide. We are all in it, together and apart. Therefore this global crisis will demonstrate who stands the test of personal leadership, of trust and credibility.
Throughout the years I have provided strategic advice for a number of CEOs and executives and I have met so many wonderful, truly dedicated people whom I am certain are doing everything they can for their people, clients, partners, families and friends. The ongoing pandemic crisis and global economic recession is hugely demanding for anyone. I am not suggesting that CEOs or heads of organizations are a specific species in this regard. But what I am saying, is that the world needs exceptional men and women right now, and these will be heartily welcomed.
Three virtues for future leaders
Here are some core virtues I belive will characterize leaders «on the right side of COVID history»:
Creativity and ability to explore: The relentless chase for better medical care, new vaccines and reseach endevours, let alone the emergency and relief work conducted by health personel, are forceful demonstrations of our urge to save lives. In addition, these efforts tells us clearly how important it is to stimulate innovation and creativity during the combat. Further down the line, we need to mobilize the same kind of effort in reinventing economic structures and growth more aligned with nature. This cause is equally crucial and definitely what´s next. Climate emissions have been significantly reduced during COVID. What´s next is to explore other ways of impactful change without torturing businesses and societal welfare.
Dicipline and analytical structure: The white warriors in health care are spending every second saving lives. Across the globe, we cry and clap for them, embracing novel and brave care. Let us at the same time appreciate the dicipline this emergency response requires. Strong and robust leadership demand analytics, conducted by bright minds and structured, detailed work. The current crisis sheds light on the quality of rationality, which is not contradictory to being creative. We need both as driving forces. What we do not need is a lot of emotional gut feeling and panic attacks.
Ethical values and purpose: Value driven leaders will in the future attend more carefully to the purpose of business in society. Needless to say, CEOs who have any wish to make a difference should mark their line now. We are embarking on a profound journey of change in leadership, maybe even a paradigm shift. CEOs need to rise to meet this mountening call for saving mother nature, the planet and humanity.
We are allowed to trust that a great many genuinely want to make an effort, albeit there is no reason to be naive.
In my opinion, there is a tremendous power in postive thinking. This is the quarantine quartz.