I recently visited Castlepoint. Like most visitors our stay included a walk to the lighthouse, however our plans were foiled by a grumpy seal blocking the path while sunbathing.
It was interesting to watch people’s responses to this ‘blockage’. Some, like us, could turn away. We explored other places that we might not otherwise have seen, getting to the lighthouse once the seal had moved. Others, on the lighthouse side of the seal, had fewer options. They could wait until it moved or climb a rockface to get around it. Some were either too scared or unable to climb and were stuck. Others struggled up the rockface, while the remaining enjoyed seeing different things on the detour.
Like these walkers, it is not uncommon for leaders to find their plans blocked unexpectedly. It is the response to the blockage, rather than the blockage itself, that determines its impact. If the blockage cannot be moved, leaders can choose to remain stuck, hoping that things will change before it is too late, or they can seek other options. If choosing another route, they can either return to the path once past the blockage, or they can consider new opportunities on different paths. While the most appropriate response will vary based on the situation, the leader’s choice should be based on an assessment of the respective risks and opportunities rather than standing still, or moving, out of fear or frustration. It is inspiring to remember that often transformative change is birthed in response to blockages and setbacks.
This article was first published in the Mercury Bay Informer of 2 March 2021.
