Three thoughts about resilience

The value of resilience in fast-changing times is an important topic. A year ago I spent 5 days 150 km north of the Arctic Circle camping at minus 20 degrees.

It was, of course, opt-in, supported by excellent safety processes and with experienced experts at hand - not remotely comparable to the challenges of the unknown we’re facing now.

Yet resilience is part of an explorer’s mindset a powerful resource for individuals and organisations, and a distinctive quality of leadership. What did I learn in the Arctic that might be relevant to these dark days? Here are 3 thoughts:

• Resilience means being realistic not optimistic. In the Arctic we prepared for the worst - practising for a potential white-out or injury. Sober realism enabled endurance.

• Resilience means increasing adaptability Trekking in Arctic conditions increased our awareness of the environment and the need to quickly adapt. Lack of awareness and adaptability accelerates risks.

• Resilience is often described as being able to "bounce-back” after a challenge – but I've always found stretch experiences create a “bounce-forward” especially when they're shared and debriefed as opportunities for reflection and learning.

What does resilience mean to you?