I loved sailing at summer camps growing up. It was similar to flying and taught me many valuable life lessons. In sailing, being "in irons" refers to when a boat is pointed directly into the wind, causing it to lose momentum and become temporarily unsteerable. For mission-driven CEOs, this scenario serves as a powerful metaphor for periods in business where we feel stuck or stalled, especially in uncertain times. Just as a sailor must adjust their sails and angle to catch the wind again, leaders must continually re-evaluate strategies to align their leadership team to boldly move forward. Staying "in irons" is not just inefficient; it’s potentially hazardous, as it leaves us vulnerable to shifting conditions without the ability to steer effectively.
In times of economic and market uncertainty, the instinct to pull back or wait for more favorable conditions can feel safe but often results in stagnation and missed opportunity. Business leaders, much like sailors, need to keep a constant eye on the “wind” or evolving customer needs and market conditions to adjust their course. This requires not only a commitment to regularly evolving your strategy and strong execution but also a clear understanding of the organization's core mission and values to guide each decision. Just as a sailor knows their destination, leaders need a clear vision, ensuring that every adjustment aligns with long-term goals rather than short-term, fear based, reactions.
The art of Scaling Up a mission-driven business includes mastering the balance between staying true to purpose and adapting to changing winds and making sure you have the right leadership team “crew” in the boat with you.
In uncertain times, it’s essential to equip teams with the agility and resilience to move swiftly and “square up” in response to both opportunities and challenges. Avoiding "iron" moments means embracing a mindset of proactive course correction, encouraging innovation, and empowering people to take action. When leaders demonstrate this adaptability, they create a culture that not only survives uncertainty but thrives in it—just as a skilled sailor makes headway, even in challenging winds.
Key questions:
What have you learned about your leadership team “WHO’s” in the current environment?
Where are you taking your team for your next quarterly and annual strategic planning and execution offsite? (Insert link in the blog to more resources)
Do you have key functions you need to find the right WHO to join your leadership team to realize your desired vision?
How are you communicating regularly with your leadership team? What is your communication rhythm with your entire company?