Dr. David Rafeedie

“That is the way we have always done it.” “We keep doing the same things over and over again and expect different results.” “We can never reach a consensus and keep spinning our wheels.” “Over the years, we have meetings talking about the same things again and again.”

 If I had a dime for every time I have heard the above statements, I would be extremely wealthy. Perhaps you have listened to them many times too, or worse, you have been part of the experience of being on a team caught in one or more of the ruts those phrases reflect. Statements like the above are signs of poor organizational health.  There is nothing in those statements that will inspire resilience.

Take a little time and have some fun with the little exercise below. Answer the What, Why, and How for your business, profession, or team. If you lead a team, collaborate with them, it will be a great team-building exercise.

The What: I am not talking about the product or results of your efforts. But the bigger picture what. “We make life more comfortable by making the best patio chair pads.” How does what you do contribute to the human condition in positive ways. Take some time to think. Be creative, be funny, and be truthful.

The Why: Why do you want to make life more comfortable by making the best patio chair pads? Why not the best recliners or the best beds? Answering the why question helps develop purpose and meaning.

The How: In my view, how you do things is just as important as what you do. What I mean is, values should guide how you do things. Yes, it is essential to be efficient and effective. And you want to do things excellently. But it is your values that direct your how.

In today’s business and organizational environment, perseverance and resilience are imperative. The ability to overcome difficulties and hang in there are requirements during these challenging times. When you have the above three critical questions answered well, you will have a leg up on perseverance and resilience.

 Tip: Resilience does not happen by accident. It requires forethought, preparation, and the right attitude.