For avid readers of A Cause Greater, you will recognize this question from my last blog post.
There is a lot happening in our world today. This has been true for a long time, and shouldn’t really surprise anyone. Answering the above question will help all leaders prepare for their current and future reality.
For nearly three decades we have been describing our world in terms of VUCA. Volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. We at Design Group International have added a second A, adding the signifier anxious in our work with Clients.
These five descriptors help paint a robust and nuanced picture of the many challenges facing leaders. These five descriptors create a call for new learning for all leaders. Humble leaders recognize that they don't know everything. Humble leaders know that they must continue to learn and bring their full selves in order to lead in our VUCAA world.
As you read this blog, take a moment right now and consider this question in gold:
What new learning will help you meet the requirement 2026 offers your leadership?
Pause. Read the question again.
Pause again.
And take a deep breath.
In the moments that follow, take a look at the table below. Which one of these descriptors do you want to lean into and learn something more about?
|
Descriptor |
Desired learning |
|
Volatile |
|
|
Uncertain |
|
|
Complex |
|
|
Ambiguous |
|
|
Anxious |
|
Once you find a descriptor (or maybe more), consider these additional questions to help frame your desired learning.
Take your time, there is no rush. This moment has been given to you by you to aid your learning.
What new learning will aid my understanding of the volatility in my marketplace?
What learning will help me and my team deal with today’s uncertainty?
Given the complexity I’m experiencing in my role, what can I learn that will create calm and presence in my interactions with my team?
As I look to the future, I’ve never experienced this much ambiguity in taking next steps. What can I learn about myself or my industry that will help me?
I can tell that my nerves are a little fried these days and that I’m more tired than rested. What will help me lower my anxiety and the stress that I fell?
Feel free to read the list of questions again. Considering which question (or slight variation) best suits your needs in this moment.
No one is watching, so take your time. This is time dedicated to your learning.
Now, take a piece of paper and write down the descriptor you have chosen to lean into. Next, write down the learning you’d like to acquire that you believe will be helpful in meeting the challenge 2026 is offering you.
Take a deep breath and look at your answer.
Congratulations! You have taken an important step in meeting the requirement out ahead.
Way to go you!
Lon
Design Group International
Co-CEO & Senior Design Partner
Along with a notebook and my favorite fountain pen, what’s in my backpack?
Becoming an Ally, By Anne Bishop 4th Edition
Permission to Rest, by Ashley Neese
Rereading, How the Way We Talk Can Change The Way We Work, Kegan and Lahey