Leadership in the Trenches

1. Leadership in the Trenches Anne Wright, BSEd Texas Children’s Hospital Leadership Developmemt

2. In Small Groups of 2-3 • Think of a time when you needed to use your best communication skills, but instead you used your worst. • Share the situation. • Explain what happened. • How did you feel?

3. Our “Go” System • We are designed for survival. • When we feel threatened, our adrenal gland secretes adrenaline. • Adrenaline triggers the “fight or flight” response – blood rushes to our large muscle groups to prepare us to fight or flee.

4. Adrenaline: Friend or Foe? • Friend! When we are in physical danger • Foe! When we are navigating complex social situations • Adrenaline drains our brains of blood – especially the higher reasoning regions.

5. In Your Small Group • Discuss how you know when you are “leading under the influence.” • What happens? • What are the risks?

6. So, What Now? • Sometimes, we know that the conversation or meeting ahead is going to be difficult. • Sometimes, we get emotionally hijacked.

7. When You Know it’s Going to be Tough… • Before the conversation, ask yourself, “What do I really want?” • Consider your goals in terms of results and relationships. • Being completely clear about your desired outcomes will help you stay focused when the situation heats up.

8. On Your Own • Think about a challenging meeting or conversation you have coming up. • Work through the worksheet to determine your desired outcomes and plan how you will approach the conversation.

9. When You Are Hijacked… • Notice that you are “under the influence.” • Ask yourself, “What do I really want as a result of this meeting or conversation?” • This complex question draws blood back to your brain, and you are now better prepared to effectively handle the situation.