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Taking Risks�& Anchoring Self

Unit 5

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The ability to survive and to recover is part of what it takes to be a leader. It is the willingness to live a life of risks that makes such individuals different from others.

�Rabbi Sacks�(Lessons in Leadership, p. 33)

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Purpose must be at the heart of any leadership endeavor; one must be clear on why one is choosing�to step into the fray

Leadership work invariably involves risk.�That is one of the hallmarks of the work.

It is as important to cultivate the tools to manage oneself as it is to manage the issue.

We need to build our own capacity to know ourselves and care for ourselves if we are to be successful in tackling leadership challenges.

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Things I’m Doing Now

New Things I Might Do

Things I’d Never Do

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YOU MIGHT WANT TO THINK ABOUT IT THIS WAY

Leadership = Facilitating Adaptation

It primarily involves Experimentation & Disappointing�people at a rate they can tolerate (loss)

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  1. Sanctuary: Find spaces that nurture and re-charge you.�Spend time in those places. This is not a “luxury.” It is crucial�for your well-being and ability to hold others through the fray.
  2. Daily Practices: In times of stress, we fall back on our habits. Good leaders need good habits. Forge healthy habits in times that are less intense, and fall back on them when challenges arise.
  3. Ground Yourself in Purpose: Remember why you are choosing�to do this difficult work. Remind others why this work matters.�When things get tough, lean on purpose.
  4. Anchor Yourself with Confidantes: Confidantes are people who care more about you than about the issue. It is crucial to have people in your life you can share with, who can hold you and support you no matter what.

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  • What anchors you when you feel overwhelmed?
  • What is your Sanctuary?
  • What are your Daily Practices?
  • What is your Purpose?
  • Who are your Confidantes?

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B.

A.

Choose something�- big or small - that you are willing to take a risk for.

Think of three small acts you can do to make leadership progress on this issue.

C.

Commit to trying those acts within the next month.

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UNIT LESSON SUMMARY: 

Leadership is risky work.�Our leadership must be deeply grounded in meaningful purpose, and we must care�for ourselves as we lead.