7 Keys To Leading During Times Of Chaos And Confusion

These are chaotic and confusing times.  Market volatility, political upheaval, extreme natural disasters, dysfunctional families, and spiritual confusion define our times.  So how do pastors, parents, those in the business sector, and all in leadership guide people through these tumultuous times?

Sports Illustrated’s great writer Peter King took us inside the world of NFL strategy in the September 5th issue.  King’s article reveals that pro football is currently a place where chaos and confusion is not only embraced, but cultivated.  Offenses attempt to confuse defenses with pre-snap verbiage and multiple formations.  Defenses attempt to confuse offenses by disguising their alignments.

Because NFL coaches are so comfortable in a world of confusion, all leaders can learn from them.  The following are seven lessons we can glean from these masters of strategy:

• Confusion Changes Things…Forever – Great leaders know that chaos and confusion are actually incredible breeding grounds for innovation.  “We’re never going back to the running game” says Houston Texans defensive coordinator Wade Phillips
• Increase The Resources In Your Problem Areas – Rex Ryan and other coaches are placing as many as four defensive players over two offensive lineman.  When times are confusing, send extra resources to better address issues.
• Continually Adapt – Bill Belichick is famous for changing his alignments weekly based upon the strengths and weaknesses of his opponent.  Leaders who are successful in confusing times are those who have excellent adaptability.
• Increased Analytics – Defensive coordinators are now studying the speed, cadence, and the amount of volume of how teams call plays to gain a competitive advantage.  To bring stability during chaotic times, go to the numbers and define reality.  Often the numbers will tell you what solutions are needed.
• Leverage Top Talent – To create confusion for offenses, the Dallas Cowboys are allowing star player DeMarcus Ware to line up at multiple locations throughout the course of a game.  To bring stability to your team during periods of confusion, allow your top players to impact multiple areas of the organization.
• Intelligence Matters – Ware says, “For our defense to work you’ve got to have smart players.  I’m convinced after being in the league for a while that you don’t have to have the best guys to be a dominant defense.  You can be a very good defense if you have smart guys.”  Smart leaders bring clarity to your organization during times of confusion.
• Expand The Decision Circle - Ryan and defensive coordinator Mike Pettine received greats insights into their goal line defense against the Patriots from undrafted safety Jim Leonhand.  Leaders understand that quality ideas can come from anyone on their team.  Pettine says, “Juan and Renaldo are the custodians in our building.  And if they’ve got an idea how to get to the quarterback, we’re all ears.” 

Change, Increased Resources, Adaptability, Analytics, Leveraging Top Talent, Intelligence, and Expanding The Decision Circle.  Implement these seven practices during times of chaos and confusion and watch things begin to come into focus.

Leaders, what do you do during times of confusion?

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