VUCA in the Context of Adaptive Leadership

VUCA as an acronym for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity and Ambiguity is a really good starting point for thinking about the environment that many businesses operate in, and ultimately seek to thrive in.

A couple of acknowledgements. Firstly an article in HBR by Nathan Bennett and James Lemoine for helping me understand the need to look at each element for it's unique challenges rather than looking at all 4 elements as something that can be solved for with just one type of intervention.

Secondly, to Jon Mertz from Thin Difference who eloquently describes the adaptive approach that leaders need to take in the face of each of the elements of VUCA using approaches that include:

• In times of Volatility - be a RELIABLE leader
• In times of Uncertainty - be a TRUSTWORTHY leader
• In times of Complexity - be a DIRECT leader
• In times of Ambiguity - be an UNDERSTANDABLE leader

Jon has also arranged these into a 2x2 matrix working along a 'speaking/listening' axis and a 'philosophy/values' axis with more detailed descriptions - worth having a read if you're interested to get more into it!

Reading up on VUCA has helped me think about the value of taking an adaptive approach to leadership. It's an acceptance that in business we face many threats. Some are known, some emerging, and some we can look forward to in the future. As a leader, the ability to maintain presence and mindfulness will always stand you in good stead to make decisions in an adaptive way when facing into each of the VUCA elements. Essentially, helping your business thrive in a sustainable way!