Be Resilient
/Resilience is the ability to overcome obstacles by using them as stepping stones rather than accepting them as dead ends. It is the determination to stay the course despite setbacks involving people, resources, changing priorities, or other environmental factors.
In operating and managing resorts, plans rarely unfold exactly as expected. We face staffing shortages, equipment failures, financial constraints, dissatisfied guests, changing business demands, and decisions that do not produce the results we anticipated.
Resilience does not mean simply enduring hardship or stubbornly following the original plan. It means remaining committed to the purpose while being willing to adjust the approach.
A resilient leader:
Remains calm and focused when circumstances become difficult.
Accepts reality without surrendering to it.
Concentrates on what can be controlled.
Adjusts the plan while remaining committed to the goal.
Demonstrates confidence that the team can move forward together.
A Leadership Example: J. Willard Marriott Resilience
J. Willard Marriott, founder of Marriott International, exemplified resilience throughout his business career.
He began in 1927 with a small root beer stand. When he recognized that customers wanted more than cold drinks, he adapted the business to include quality food and dependable service. That small stand developed into the Hot Shoppes restaurant chain and eventually expanded into lodging and hospitality.
Marriott built his company through the Great Depression, World War II, economic uncertainty, and the inevitable challenges of growing a business. When circumstances changed, he did not abandon his purpose. He adjusted his approach, protected the company’s values, and continued moving forward.
Applying Resilience to Leadership
When we encounter an obstacle, we should pause and ask:
What can I learn from this setback?
What remains within my control?
What adjustment is needed?
What is the next productive step?
How can I help my team move from frustration to forward action?
This Friday, the plan may change. The resources may change. The people involved may change. But your commitment to your organization’s purpose remains steady.
Bend but don’t break.
Pivot when necessary
Keep your focus on the goal.
Be Resilient.
Until Next Friday,
Rob