The Door of Opportunity in Crisis: Emotional Intelligence & Leadership
Discovering Opportunities with Japanese Wisdom and "危機"
I am always fascinated by how much we can expand our perspectives through the lens of different languages. This time, I want to refer to Japanese wisdom and explore the concept of "危機" (“kiki” - crisis), which is a combination of "danger" (危-”ki”) and "opportunity" (機-”ki”). As leaders, we can adopt a more balanced perspective and learn to seek opportunities even in the midst of adversity.
The idea behind “kiki” reminds us that within every crisis, there's also an opportunity waiting to be discovered. By embracing both sides of the coin, we become more adaptable and resilient, better equipped to face adversity with determination.
Developing Emotional Intelligence and Empathy in Leadership
Developing emotional intelligence skills such as self-awareness and empathy enables us to connect with our teammates, creating a stronger and more resilient group. Fostering emotions like courage, resilience, and optimism helps us tap into the wisdom of “kiki” and navigate crises effectively.
Reflective Questions for Empathic Leaders in Crisis
Here are a few reflective questions that leaders can ask themselves in the midst of crisis to become more aware, regulate their emotions, and choose to focus on the opportunity with courage, resilience, and optimism:
- What emotions am I experiencing right now, and how are they affecting my decision-making?
- How can I better understand and support my team members during this challenging time?
- What opportunities for growth or innovation might be hidden within this crisis?
- How can I effectively communicate my thoughts and feelings while managing my emotions to avoid negative impacts on my team?
Conclusion: Uncovering Opportunities Through Emotional Intelligence and Empathic Leadership
The Japanese concept of “kiki” offers valuable insights for leaders looking for opportunities in a crisis. By embracing the wisdom of “kiki”, developing emotional intelligence skills, and asking ourselves reflective questions, we can uncover opportunities for growth and innovation in the face of adversity. As leaders, let's use this wisdom to guide our teams through tough times with a balanced perspective and a lot of heart.
