35. Expect the Unexpected

Despite all their best efforts, even those we perceive as natural born leaders cannot anticipate every eventuality. Stuff happens. Events occur that no one could have anticipated. Sometimes the unexpected is good. Sometimes it is bad. The best leaders retain a part of their awareness in readiness for the uncertain, the unexpected, and the unpredictability of life.

Create an internal reminder that the unexpected may occur. Assume you have done the best you can with all the other skills for clarifying expectations. Now take this next step. Remember that "something else will come up." That simple point in consciousness may be enough to prepare you for the unexpected.

Ratchet up your external "attention power." Keep your ...

Get The 108 Skills of Natural Born Leaders now with the O’Reilly learning platform.

O’Reilly members experience books, live events, courses curated by job role, and more from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers.