Leadership is not just about vision, strategy, and execution—it is also about response. Anyone can lead when the path is clear, and the outcomes are predictable. But what happens when things do not go as expected? How we respond to the unexpected reveals the depth and maturity of our leadership.
Unplanned disruptions are inevitable. Whether it is a last-minute change in plans, a personal setback, or an unexpected market shift, true leaders are defined not by what happens to them, but by how they react.
When faced with the unexpected, there are typically three responses:
- Panic
This is often our first instinct. We feel the pressure of a surprise situation and immediately jump into crisis mode. Panic clouds our judgment, shortens our perspective, and often leads to rushed or faulty decisions. Leaders who panic lose credibility and control, often dragging their teams into chaos with them. While the urgency may be real, giving in to panic rarely leads to progress.
- Pout
It may sound childish, but this response is more common than we would like to admit. When things do not go our way, it is tempting to cross our arms (literally or figuratively), stew in disappointment, or even blame others. We might feel let down or think, “This isn’t fair.” While pouting is an emotional reaction, it is an unproductive one. It stalls forward movement, saps team energy, and erodes trust in leadership. A pout may be silent, but its effects can be loud and long-lasting.
- Pivot
Here is where great leadership shines. To pivot means to adapt quickly, to shift perspective, and to embrace the challenge as an opportunity. It is not about ignoring the difficulty but about engaging with it in a way that creates innovation and forward momentum. Leaders who pivot remain calm under pressure, analyze the situation, and find creative solutions. They ask, “What can we learn?” or “How can this turn into something better?”
Surprises in leadership—while uncomfortable—often carry seeds of growth. A project delay might uncover a better process. A team conflict might expose a need for stronger communication. A budget cut might force innovation. But we only find these silver linings when we choose to pivot.
So, how do we cultivate a PIVOT MINDSET?
- Stay grounded in your purpose. Knowing your “why” helps you remain focused when the “what” shifts.
- Train yourself to ask forward-thinking questions. What is the opportunity here? How can this make us better? How can I best address the emerging situation?
- Build a culture of adaptability. Encourage your team to see challenges as creative opportunities rather than setbacks.
Leadership is not about everything going as planned. It is about showing up with courage, clarity, and flexibility when things go sideways.
The next time life throws you a curveball … PIVOT!
Need a hand? Infinity Concepts is here to help! CLICK HERE or call us today at 724-733-1200.
- PIVOT POWER Finding Opportunity in the Unexpected - August 22, 2025
- DETOUR AHEAD – Leading Projects with Flexibility and Focus - April 11, 2025
- The 4D Growth Framework - September 27, 2024
