Leading Through Adversity
“The ultimate measure of a leader is not where they stand in moments of comfort and convenience, but where they stand at times of challenge and controversy.” — Martin Luther King Jr.
Being a leader and owning a business takes an immense amount of courage. You’re not just dreaming; you’re doing. You’re making it happen, sometimes even through your tears. Leadership requires bravery and resilience, and it’s important to take a moment to acknowledge the incredible strength it takes to come this far. Celebrate yourself—because your journey has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Entrepreneurship is like a rollercoaster—thrilling one moment, and overwhelming the next. I know this firsthand. In 2019, I was convinced that 2020 would be my year. But then the global pandemic hit, and the rug was pulled out from under me. Suddenly, I found myself in turbulent waters, trying to stay afloat while keeping my team inspired and engaged.
To say it was challenging is an understatement, but those moments became the ultimate test of my leadership. They forced me to dig deep, adapt, and grow. The lessons I learned during that time transformed my confidence and gave me the tools to navigate future adversities with clarity and strength.
Embrace Setbacks as Learning Opportunities
As author and motivational speaker Mel Robbins says, “When you face a setback, don’t beat yourself up. Don’t use that setback as evidence for why things will never work out. Don’t sulk or feel kicked down.”
Mural on our front window display and later on our box gift sets.
Feel the disappointment. Cry, scream, do what you need to release it. But then, pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and move forward. Your team looks to you as their anchor. Be the fearless and inspiring leader they need during uncertain times.
When I visited a vineyard in Barcelona, I learned about how adversity can create beauty. Grapes that endure hardship—drought, poor soil, or limited water—often produce sweeter, more concentrated fruit. These vines must dig deep into the earth to find water and nutrients, and that struggle strengthens them. The result? Exceptional wines with rich, complex flavors.
I found this to be a perfect metaphor for leadership. Just like those vines, we grow stronger and more resilient when we face challenges. Adversity forces us to focus, refine our strengths, and emerge with greater depth and character. The sweetness of success isn’t accidental—it’s the result of overcoming life’s toughest conditions.
Build Mental Stamina Through Daily Growth Practices
The ability to lead through adversity doesn’t happen by chance. It’s cultivated through intentional practices that build mental and emotional resilience. Here are some tools I’ve developed over the years that have helped me grow into the leader I am today:
1. Develop a Daily Growth Practice
Think of your growth practice as preventative care, not only for yourself but for those around you. Training your mind every day is like preparing for a mental marathon. When challenges arise, you’ll have the strength to face them with clarity and composure.
My meditation usually involves a cat on my lap.
My personal growth practice includes 20 minutes of meditation, journaling, and a gratitude practice. Instead of reaching for social media or the news first thing in the morning, I open my gratitude app. It provides thoughtful journal prompts that center my mind on what I appreciate, even the challenges that have helped shape me.
Gratitude is a powerful mindset shift. It teaches you to see challenges as opportunities for growth and transformation. Over time, this practice has strengthened my resilience and allowed me to approach setbacks with a sense of purpose and optimism.
2. Move Your Body
Exercise is another cornerstone of mental stamina. Physical movement not only builds strength and confidence but also keeps you present. Whether it’s a walk, yoga, or a workout, staying active helps you process stress and refocus your energy on what truly matters.
3. Train Your Mind to Embrace Change
Leadership is full of unpredictable outcomes. One of the most valuable skills you can develop is the ability to adapt and embrace change.
Start small: take a different route to work, try a new hobby, or explore a new cuisine. These small shifts help train your brain to view change as an opportunity rather than a threat. Over time, this mindset becomes second nature, making it easier to lead with confidence even in uncertain times.
Team field trip to the art museum for a little inspiration.
To make it fun, write down new experiences you’d like to try, fold them into a jar, and pick one each month. Whether it’s learning to paint, trying a new fitness class, or even mastering a new skill, these small steps will help you become more adaptable and open to life’s surprises.
Sweetness Through the Struggle
When I reflect on my own journey, I see how every setback shaped me into the leader I am today. Just like those sweet grapes, it’s the adversity that has created depth and complexity in my life. I’ve learned that resilience isn’t about avoiding challenges but about growing through them.
As you navigate your own leadership journey, remember that setbacks are not the end of the road. They’re opportunities to develop your unique flavor and refine the qualities that make you exceptional.
Your Next Step
What challenges have shaped your growth as a leader? How have they helped you develop your own unique flavor? Share your stories with me—I’d love to hear about your journey.
And if you’re ready to take your growth to the next level, join my prelaunch list for “Grow Yourself, Lead Others”. Together, we’ll cultivate the tools and mindset to lead with strength and purpose—no matter what challenges come your way.
