When facing a problem -- whether daily annoyance or all-out crisis -- a crucial question is: "What's needed here?" Without such orientation, the ego can lead us into the "why?" of the unchangeable past, or the "place / avoid blame" syndrome. While seemingly innocuous, this question helps leaders avoid reactively wasting time and energy, and focus on the whole picture. When you get that hot, stressed-out flush -- or sinking feeling of failure -- make it a practice to catch and assess such responses in the moment. Take a breath ... and pause. Then ask "what's needed here" to shift your focus from reaction toward what your team and organization require. This will inspire others to make changes that unleash creativity and new solutions that bring success to everyone involved.
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