We have firmly entered the second half of 2020. Experience tells us the time between now and January 2021 will fly by quickly. As it does, we have to prepare to lead our teams through extreme challenges.

While we continue to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s Atlantic hurricane season has begun and will stay with us through November. National Weather Service forecasters expect activity to be above normal in 2020.

In Arizona, our monsoon season has begun and will be with us through September. Winds shift, bringing an abundance of moisture from the Gulf of Mexico and the Gulf of California that cause flash floods and sometimes disastrous outcomes.

Beyond concerns around social issues, unemployment levels, economic instability, and health and safety, in 2020, we face a presidential election that could change our country significantly.

Leadership Tip
Anticipate and then prepare to overcome challenges in the second half of 2020.  

Many factors to becoming an exceptional leader are in play during challenging times like these. I offer my top nine challenges, summarized here. You’ll find more detail in my complimentary eBook:
9 Success Factors for Exceptional Leadership During Challenging Times. Download here.

Exceptional leaders:

1. Recognize that leadership during challenging times is not much different than any other time.
2. Confirm that the messages they are sending are clearly understood by their stakeholders.
3. Do not wait to create a plan to recover once the challenging time is behind them. Instead, they make their recovery plan(s) now so they’re ready to execute them when they can.
4. Heed the advice of key stakeholders with a positive attitude while seeking creative solutions to challenging situations.
5. Demonstrate patience during these challenging times.
6. Possess perseverance and resiliency as they adapt to change and take actions that move them forward.
7. Remain grounded and consistent in their decision-making despite the uncertainty.
8. Maintain their focus on solutions while avoiding distractions.
9. Ensure their organization stays active with professional development.

To meet the upcoming challenges, exceptional leaders must reflect, think, and plan. In a word, they prepare!