“There is no problem so bad that you can’t make it worse.” Chris Hadfield, Astronaut
How often have you had the thought, “Well, this can’t get any worse.” Sure it could, and you could be the reason it does.
Your actions as a leader will shape the direction of your team or organization. So, it’s crucial to choose wisely and avoid actions or inactions that can cause more problems.
Pay attention to these four things:
Your Perceptions and Emotions
It may not be the issue itself that is good or bad. It’s probably your perception of it and the emotions you attach to it. When a problem or crisis emerges, you must check your emotions and perceptions. The circumstances don’t care about your feelings. Getting worked up isn’t going to change anything except making those around you anxious. Besides, displaying anger or extreme emotion only shows you can’t even control yourself.
This is not to say that you shouldn’t feel the feelings. Just don’t let them be in charge. Unfortunately, we are being told to “Always trust your feelings.” At least, that’s what we’ve been teaching kids. It should be, “Always feel your feelings, but don’t trust them.” You must slow down, examine your emotions and perceptions, and set the tone for those you lead.
The Weight of Making Decisions
You are constantly faced with choices that can alleviate or compound challenges. The impact of decisions is not limited to improvement alone; a misstep on your part can escalate a problem further. As an influential leader, you recognize the weight of your choices and strive for thoughtful, strategic decision-making that aligns with the organization’s long-term goals.
All Problems are Opportunities
As a leader, you will inevitably encounter setbacks and misjudgments. However, it’s important to learn from these mistakes and use them as opportunities for growth. All problems are opportunities. “The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” (Marcus Aurelius)
Acknowledging the potential to worsen situations, you understand the importance of humility and self-reflection. Embracing a learning mindset enables you to refine your decision-making processes, ultimately becoming more adept at steering your teams through challenges.
Anticipate the Worst
This proactive approach aligns with the underlying message of the quote – acknowledging that problems can worsen without careful consideration. By actually considering how it could actually get worse, you can minimize the likelihood of unintended negative consequences.
Remember that the quote, “There is no problem so bad that you can’t make it worse also,” is a guiding principle for leaders like you. Check your emotions. Recognize the dual nature of the decisions you reach. See the problem as an opportunity, even if it’s only an opportunity to practice your values and virtues. Finally, think strategically about how it could actually get worse.
If you apply these four things, you most likely won’t have to deal with it getting worse.