Ever jumped from a plane?

After the initial shock it can be quite euphoric as you seemingly float. The ground appears to stay still, clouds floating way below you. All you hear is the air rushing past your ears.

As you continue to fall you may suddenly have a pivotal moment. The world seems to be hurtling toward you – time is not on your side …

Ground Rush.

It’s a military term to explain a dangerous phenomenon in parachuting. It’s dangerous because it can cause people to panic, they might stop relying on their instruments, lose awareness of what’s happening around them or what other sky divers are doing. 

In short – it’s when bad accidents can occur.

But here’s the interesting point … Ground Rush is only a feeling, it’s not real.

The ground is still where it has always been. You are pretty much falling at the same rate … it’s only your perception that’s changed.

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Now to the Organisation …

People can be really clear on the Purpose and Vision of their business. It’s like jumping from the plane … seeing the world for what it is and why – always knowing where you are heading. 

But in the face of omnipresent challenges – evolving landscapes, restructuring and “BAU” (business as usual) – it can be easy to panic. Easy to forget about the Purpose and Vision, your real situation, the ‘instruments’ and people around you … and just focus on the activity rushing towards you at a seemingly impossible pace.

Ground Rush in the Organisation.

So here’s what we need to remember … nine times out of ten it’s just a feeling. Don’t be fooled – keep your head!

It’s also a great chance to show strong leadership to those around you who may be feeling the same pressure.

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A couple more business leadership tips:

• Keep getting back in the plane and jumping … remind yourself of your Purpose and Vision
• Always use the Purpose and Vision as lenses for your activity – constantly re-prioritise … daily if necessary
• Be prepared to delegate or let go of actions, you can’t do everything
• Trust your ‘instruments’ and the people around you