Author Stephen King, probably best known for his horror novels, would know about being prepared for the worst – after all, his ability to picture and describe this has led to his enormous success.

And while optimism for the future is an important leadership trait – leaders need to be able to visualise and describe a vision that everyone can understand and will want to be a part of – preparing for the worst is essential to our survival. Simply put, Homo Sapiens would never have survived droughts, storms and other natural disasters without preparation for lean times.

Unfortunately, it is also human nature to become somewhat complacent when things are going well – again, rooted in evolutionary biology, perhaps, as the mind’s way of taking some much-needed rest. Without keeping an eye on your surroundings, though, you can be in for a nasty surprise.

From a business perspective, and as a company director / board member, risk management is, of course, essential, as I wrote about last week. By understanding the risks and having plans in place for response if those risks emerge, you’re best placed to focus your energies on your vision, knowing that even if the worst happens, you will be able to respond.

So, by all means hope for the best and work towards this vision but be ready to respond if things don’t go the right way.

Or, as the financial adviser and author, Howard Ruff said, “It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark.”

#BusinessFitness #Boards #Business #CEO #Change #Crisis #Disruption #GoalSetting #Governance #Leadership #Opportunity #Paranoid #Planning #Strategy #QOTW

If you’d like to discuss board and business strategy issues with me, book a free, no obligation 30-minute call here. I’d be delighted to speak with you.

And if you’d like to learn more, these articles might be useful:

• “Expect the best. Prepare for the worst. Capitalize on what comes.” – Zig Ziglar
• “There is nothing permanent except change.” – Heraclitus
• 4 Ways Your Strategy Plans Could Be Derailed
• Planning to De-Risk Your Business Against Future Threats
• 2022 – Looking Ahead – Top Trends Facing Business
• Drive your Business by Looking Through the Windscreen Not the Rear-View Mirror
• CEOs – 6 Important Questions to Ask Yourself
• Is Your Business Ready for “The Perfect Storm”?
• The Role & Responsibilities of the Company Board
• Why a Proper Board is Essential, Even for Small Businesses