Ride the Rapids of Leadership

In today's heightened stressful environments brought on by the unrest in our communities both real and online, it can feel like navigating a river of Class V rapids.  I am no expert in rafting, but I have been a time or two down the American River near Sutter's Mill in the Gold Country of El Dorado County, CA.  The only safety tips I remember were, "If you fall out, keep your head up, point your feet downriver, and wait for the water to calm down before you swim to the side."


Thanks to: raftecho.com for the information and the image.

We know that not everything is going to go your way.  Sometimes things are really messy and not easy to solve.  It can feel very turbulent, moving too fast, with obstacles in the way, and entanglements that can trap us or pull us down.  But just like in rafting, the same safety principles apply.

  1. Keep your head up, you still have to breathe.  This principle is all about self-care.  I never did yoga until I became a superintendent. I never learned about 'box breathing' until I worked with a more contentious board of trustees.  When in the rapids find your own way to keep your head up and keep breathing.
  2. Point your toes downriver. When in the water of the rapids, your toes are up and keep them from getting caught in the rocks and logs you can't see under the water. Your legs also act as a shock absorber if you hit any obstacles.  This principle is about safety and direction. You and your team know what do to, so keep your feet pointed where you need to go.  Keep your toes up so you are ready and agile.  The rapids are both steady and changing. Don't be complacent thinking you have it all sorted out.
  3. Wait for calmer waters before you swim to a safer place.  This principle is rest, pace, and cadence.  You are not likely going to be able to swim your way out of a rapid on the river.  Too fast, too much current, and just too much, so don't try.  Save your energy for what you can do. Know what you can accomplish, then when you can act, act with purpose.

Stay safe out there!


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