I was frustrated *** my timeline was scrapped *** the deadline I’d set was long past *** my PLAN wasn’t working this time. Can you relate?
📗I’m talking about my book!
If this is the first you’re hearing about it, SURPRISE 🥳 I’ve written a book that is forthcoming, and I’m SO excited to share it with you!
But first, I wanted to give a little sneak peak into the behind-the-scenes madness😅 AND what it’s teaching me. Maybe it can help you too!
Full disclosure: I wanted the book out to the market by NOW (and obviously, that hasn’t happened yet!).
Through the process, there have been several unexpected delays and things that interfered with my original plan and timelines.
Because I’m a Type A personality, a driver, determined to make things happen no matter what—these delays have been challenging for me to come to terms with on some days.
The thing is, it’s no one’s fault. It’s a combination of unexpected, unforeseen circumstances. And it’s also the desire to release a truly excellent book without compromising on quality at any point.
One of the things I’m LEARNING through this process…
…it’s not just about my desire to reach the deadlines I’ve set. ⬇️⬇️⬇️
I also need to consider all of the people on my team who have made this project their own, who have contributed their time and expertise to help me make it the best it can be. ❤️
When I’m hard on myself about the expectations I’ve set for a project (this book), it affects everyone else on my team who are all doing their very best to make it happen!
So, here are 3️⃣ THREE 3️⃣ takeaways I’ve found, when it comes to leading through unexpected (and sometimes frustrating) setbacks:
(1 ) Maintain relationships and morale while working toward the end result—even if expectations and deadlines need to be adjusted to do it.
(2) It takes more strength and creativity to lead people well in ambiguity. ***side note…anyone can erupt like a volcano out of anger – it takes intentional strength to manage emotions in stressful times*** So, when ambiguity, or the “unexpected,” strikes, take it as an opportunity to learn to lead better.
(3) Setbacks aren’t always the enemy. Take time to listen to the setbacks, because often they can redirect you to a better path!
💪It can be challenging for leaders like me, who are very results driven, when delays happen. We want to get things done (yesterday!). And when barriers arise or things come up, we don’t accept excuses from ourselves or others.
🚨The danger in that way of thinking is seeing any setback as an excuse or as something to be overcome rather than learning opportunities. And the danger is also seeing the people on your team as the setback (which is often not true!).
SO, let’s listen to the setbacks, become better leaders, and make sure we’re CARING for the people on our team along the way!
P.S. – I can’t wait to show you the book! More to come on that soon 👀👏🎉
