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Glenn Brooke | February 11, 2015 | 2 Comments

Expect Hard – Glenn Brooke

 

I recognized a major mindset error as I reflected on recent events:

I was foolishly expecting things to go smoothly and the work to be straightforward.  I became upset and mad at myself and others, and discouraged (ever been on that roller-coaster?) because of the surprising gap between my expectations and reality.

New leadership mantra:  Expect hard, and lean into it. 

 

Advantages:

  • Occasionally, things are easier than expected, but not often. This is simple reality. Expecting hard means I’m not surprised.
  • I’m more likely to be better prepared for new situations. If we think it will be easy, hey, we’re human and we’re likely to skimp on preparation. I’m also more likely to make sure our team is well-prepared.
  • I have the opportunity to enjoy the challenges because I know they will surface. I get to say “That’s interesting” rather than “That’s terrible! We’re doomed!”.
  • I’m less likely to quit too soon.

There’s more to say, but right now I’m working on expecting hard.

Filed Under: Leadership

Glenn Brooke

Glenn considers leadership a craft which requires dedicated pursuit. The apprentice model (instruction + practice + associating with other craftsmen) is the time-tested way to foster the next generation of leaders. Real leaders never stop working on their craft; there are only new levels of mastery ahead. Learn more at leadershipcraft.com.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Adam Smith says

    February 11, 2015 at 8:56 am

    Great post and reminder here, Glenn. Love that – Expect hard, and lean into it.

    Reply
    • Jed Jurchenko says

      February 11, 2015 at 11:50 am

      Yes, love the leadership mantra too! A good reminder that “hard” is normal, & that I’m not the only one who faces challenges. When life is difficult, sometimes it’s because were doing things right 🙂 Thanks Glenn, love this!

      Reply

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Hi, my name is Adam Smith and welcome to asmithblog.com. I am the author of the book, The Bravest You. Because of my work as an entrepreneur, consultant, writer, and speaker, I have been named a top industry influencer by American Genius. I live with my wife, Jasmine, and three children in Shenandoah, IA.

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