Shades of Success, Inc.

Giving Thanks Despite Adversity

It has been a tough year.  Adjusting to the demands of motherhood and full-time studies have exceeded any challenge I have ever had.  This year has been exhausting, frustrating and highly demanding on my time and health.  Despite my newly chaotic lifestyle, I was prepared to write a nice post about life, motherhood and family.

Then my laptop broke.  Yes, my laptop died on Tuesday night just as I was about to send in a draft of a paper for review.  A series of events led up to my laptop's demise.   

Between Tuesday and today I did not feel very thankful at all. I am still working on it.

Trying to be appreciative of what we have when we are hit with problems is not easy.  It takes time to deal with the rage, frustration and sadness that our present challenges make us feel.

I bought myself a new laptop and, as I started loading new programs and recreating my files, I thought of doing the same with the rest of year:  Face adversity with less frustration and more hope that things will turn out for the best.  Even when the road looks rocky ahead.

Do you have a plan B?

Layoffs and bankruptcy notices dominate the news lately.  There is no doubt that we are facing highly volatile economic times. So, how are you dealing with it?  See if any of the answers below reflect your reaction:

a) denying it ("it's not going to affect me")

b) hoping it won't affect you ("my job is secure.... they need me") 

c) worrying incessantly about it ("oh my God I don't know what to do")

What was your answer? Hopefully most of you said none of the above.

In a previous post, I suggested to change your mindset when thinking about your professional life in these uncertain times.  Let's go a step further.  How about having a plan B?  It is challenging to think of alternatives when we feel that we are barely treading water.  Businesses are struggling to remain afloat much less remain innovative as a recent New York Times article discussed.

How to create a plan B?

First,  you must realize that everyone--including you--is affected by these turbulent times.  Being on denial or having unsupported hopes that you are immune will only leave you unprepared to face any challenges that could come your way.

Second, thoroughly evaluate where you stand professionally. Do you work in an industry that is being severely affected?  How have layoffs, restructuring been handled in the past?  Where do you fit in the organization?  Be realistic and base your conclusions on facts (e.g. performance reviews, discussions with your boss).

Third, plan for different scenarios. It is important that you get used to pro-actively manage your career (and life in general).  So, think of the different situations that could happen in the next month, 3-month, 6 month, one-year period.  What would you do?   Who do you trust to brainstorm solutions?

If you feel a bit overwhelmed by preparing a plan B, consider this:  How many of the 25,000 employees at Lehman Brothers do you think had a plan B? For a reminder of the how and what of the Lehman Brothers bankruptcy click here.

Lessons from the Obama Victory

Wow.  What an election night.  Even our ten-month baby boy knew that something was happening.  He would not go to sleep until the election results were in!

To watch the video of Obama's speech on election night click here.  To read his remarks on election night click here.

All jokes aside, regardless of where your political inclinations fall, here are my personal take-aways from Obama's victory:

1.  Victory (or success) is always a collective effort.  Obama could not have done it without the armies of people who contributed in every small and large way to his election.  Similarly, we need to rely on others (colleagues, friends, partners) to achieve goals.  Do you know who your allies are?

2. Focus is necessary to succeed.  Obama remained focused on discussing issues (yes, there were negative ads around, etc.).  When instigated to get personal during debates, Obama did not give in.  He took the high road.  It is so easy to get sidetracked by unexpected circumstances and lose track of our ultimate goal.  Let's not.  When faced with challenges that threaten to alter our course, ask yourself:  What do I want to accomplish?  How can I get back on track? Who can help me get there?