Change the things that can be changed, accept those that cannot, and have the wisdom to know the difference.
Serenity Prayer

Leadership often surfaces in a battle or pandemic, where the consequences of poor judgment are fatal. Critical self-management issues will surface for each of us in opportunity situations (upside risk) and high consequence situations (downside risk).

Most of us think about and look at downside risk, such as Murphies, bad events, or bad things. Let’s look at opportunity situations (upside risk). For example, can Risk Based, Problem Solving (RBPS) and Decision Making (RBDM) make a difference in a business organization or a project team?

Why do we spend so much time on VUCAN leadership? Studies indicate VUCAN leadership is shown in teams, small organizations, and individuals. Small product development teams have developed breathtaking products, project teams have constructed wonders of the world, and small combat teams have changed the outcome of battles and even wars. In these instances, leaders made smart decisions in VUCA time that had a dramatic impact on organizational performance.

Story: A simple business example illustrates the power of VUCAN leadership and Intentional Self-Management. The captain of a fishing vessel can be a leader who makes a noticeable difference. A fishing vessel is a unique environment. It’s a mobile small business whose success is determined by its catch of fish. It’s isolated from influences. This is similar to a food truck that sells tacos or services. Both are self-contained small businesses that can be studied. One study found 40% of the variation in the herring catch among boats in the country’s fishing fleet depended on the personality of the captain. You can also predict the success of a food truck based on the owner’s choices and decision making.

Work Lesson Earned: A similar survey of top U.S. and Canadian companies concluded 15 to 25% of the variation in a company’s profitability was directly due to their chief executives’ decision making. Fishing boat captains sense where the fish are, food truck operators know what customers want, and executives knowing what projects to green light. They all share the common factor – they know where the money is! Leadership matters.

Organizations are looking for workers and contractors who can self-manage their work, be innovative, and make their numbers. Any thoughts?