In this episode of the ”Built to Lead” podcast, host Jory delves into the critical topic of leading through adversity—a subject particularly relevant in today’s challenging times. Jory begins by defining adversity as difficulties and misfortunes that are inevitable in life, especially for those in leadership roles or running a business. He acknowledges that adversity comes in many forms, such as economic downturns, accidents, competition, changes in laws or technology, and social shifts, emphasizing that leaders must be prepared to face these challenges head-on.

Throughout the discussion, Jory highlights common pitfalls leaders should avoid when confronted with adversity, such as abdicating responsibility, panicking, blaming external factors, or deviating from core values and integrity. He proposes a structured five-step approach for effective leadership during tough times:

Step into the leadership void by taking charge and providing stability.
Face the brutal facts to understand the reality of the situation.
Avoid blaming external factors and take responsibility for finding solutions.
Get to the root of the problem by identifying underlying issues rather than surface-level symptoms.
Solve and execute a plan to overcome the adversity, ensuring actions are based on solid data and collective input.
Additionally, Jory stresses the importance of the leader’s mindset, advocating for an abundance mentality that sees adversity as an opportunity for growth rather than a setback. He encourages leaders to absorb the uncertainty of others, maintain open communication, and provide encouragement without ignoring the challenges at hand. By asking functional questions like ”What can we control?” and ”What needs to change?” leaders can navigate their teams through difficult times effectively. The episode concludes with a reminder that while adversity is unavoidable, being prepared and adopting the right strategies can lead to successful outcomes and stronger leadership.