These are unprecedented times. Unprecedented times require new action to keep moving forward.

I keep listing ideas and circling next best steps and yet…

(This is a screenshot of the music video Atlas Seven by Sleeping at Last.)

Right now, I imagine many of you are feeling a bit like this lyric. We’re still sheltering in place in many parts of our country, whether you’re adhering to strict guidelines or choosing a more careful route, working from home for many continues to be the new normal. How do we get motivated ourselves in order to motivate those we lead?

I work as a coach for women in leadership. Leading is hard work no matter the circumstances. But now? When teams are working virtually and your one on one meetings are held on WebEx or Zoom or Teams; when these vital relational interactions feel so different? To say this is a challenge is a gross understatement.

So what do we do?

1. Ask questions. Seek out the voices whose perspective you’ve appreciated and learned from before these crazy times. Who has helped you learn and grow? Who has helped give you perspective? My number one voice for authentic, transformational leadership is Brené Brown.
2. Do the Work. As a transformational leader, your role includes being a learning example to your people. Share your own challenge and what you’re doing to work through it. Research shows the authenticity of leadership motivates the team. Want data to support what you’re learning? My favorite resource is Harvard Business Review
3. Create life rhythms for this new normal. Perhaps you’ve read Rhythms of Renewal by Rebekah Lyons. Her book’s thesis states there are four main rhythms that make for a balanced and healthy life. Rest. Restore. Connect. Create. You may already have one or more of the four in place. Developing a new rhythm can bring renewal to your days and week. When you experience renewal in your personal life, your leadership will take on new life, too.

Sometimes we need a little nudge of accountability to take new action. I want you to know I understand how hard these circumstances are. Overcoming obstacles is not a walk in the park; an obstacle prevents your progress. Sometimes it takes new eyes to help figure out how to get through or around or over said obstacle. Sometimes you need a coach.

I’d love to give you a quick, 20 minute coaching call so that you can get a new perspective. You’d be amazed how much can get done in 20 minutes. Best of all? It’s free!

Schedule your complimentary coaching conversation for the coming week. I look forward to connecting and hearing what’s brewing.