Federal leaders face significant challenges during these times of technology and change. It is the resilient leaders who perform most effectively in this environment. Researchers have determined that while education, experience, and training are an essential foundation for all leaders, it is a person's thinking style that determines whether he or she succeeds or fails. And the greatest predictor of success is that of a resilient thinking style. Whether challenges come from pressure to increase productivity, budget constraints, changes in business practices, or reductions in staff, the managers who are resilient thinkers out-last, out-manage and overall out-perform their non-resilient peers.

Among the key ingredients that create resilience are:

Perspective and a "can-do" optimism. An optimistic or resilient attitude is one of hopeful expectation for positive results. This optimism pulls resilient people through hard times and helps them keep their focus on success. An optimistic attitude also helps people stay grounded in the present and maintain perspective during times of strife. Resilient people approach all challenges as a normal way of life and use challenges to grow and learn.

Goal setting and flexibility. Resilient people are able to “bounce back” when faced with loss or failure because they adopt a certain flexibility toward their personal and professional goals. This flexibility is grounded in a set of beliefs that help them to maintain perspective when life throws them a curve.

A “holistically healthy self.” The ability to manage stress makes leaders more efficient. Life is inherently stressful and resilient people know how to take purposeful action to control it. Resilient people have learned to manage difficult responsibilities but set limits and avoid whatever stress they can by saying "No" when appropriate. They actively practice stress reduction through various methods like exercise or meditation.

A willingness to accept help. The most resilient individuals are those who utilize available resources and readily reach out for support when they need it.

While resiliency may seem to come “naturally” to some, it is a skill that can be taught. With training, leaders can practice techniques that help them develop the ability to motivate themselves and others by developing resilient attitudes toward difficult and challenging times; put challenges in perspective for themselves and co-workers; set flexible goals that are attainable; and manage stress.

FOH’s OD alternatives offers a wide scope of leadership programs and resiliency training options to equip federal employees with the skills to succeed in an environment where change is constant and accelerating. FOH will customize training to fit each agency’s needs from half-day workshops to week-long seminars or media-based and on-line programs. Contact us today to learn more.