2020 has been a year of unpredictable challenges that have demanded a great deal from leaders around the world. Back in March, we started these "Virtual Gatherings" as a way to stay connected with our global community and learn from one another as we responded to these new circumstances. In our first gathering we explored the question, "What is critical about leadership and leadership communication right now, and how can leaders create community and confidence in uncertain times?" 10 months later, having watched the world respond to the COVID health crisis, economic upheaval, and a social reckoning, we believe it's time for some high-stakes reflection. What will we take away from 2020 that can make us stronger, smarter and more connected in the years to come?
For our final gathering of the year, Mickey Connolly, Robin Anselmi and Jim Motroni shared what their work with global leaders this year has revealed about what great leadership looks like now, and how 2020's lessons can serve as fuel for 2021 and beyond. They began by asking those that joined the conversation live to share: What is present for you as you reflect on 2020? Here are a few of the things people said:
"2020 has really, truly demonstrated the need for resilience at every single scale."
"Closer to family. Time to show up. A year of creativity."
"Loss. Challenge, hope, renewal."
"2020 really was a year that proved there is no such thing as certainty."
Mickey, Robin and Jim went on to share where they've seen leaders show up this year in valuable and vulnerable ways, and what common pitfalls and missed opportunities we can all learn from. The panelists also made the important point that as we move into a new year, we each have the opportunity "to be the storyteller or the story told." Leaders can create meaning out of the lessons of the year that serves the future they want to create for themselves and their organizations. So, what meaning will you derive from 2020?
Find information about all our upcoming and past webinars on our Community Gatherings page.
What’s important for you and the people you serve right now? We would love to hear from you.
We will continue to explore topics relating to leadership, community and organizational vitality in 2021. If you'd like to stay up-to-date on announcements and the resources we're sharing, we invite you to sign up for our newsletter.
