This past year has provided lessons in resilience and risk. What used to be once-in-a-hundred-year events (a pandemic, record setting hurricanes, floods, and wildfires) are hitting us from every direction more often. This is an important time to assess and prepare for whatever large-scale catastrophes lie ahead.
Ray Bradberry famously said, “You’ve got to jump off a cliff and build your wings on the way down.”
It’s a great metaphor for how we can confront the risks facing businesses today. Leaders must take that first step, or they may find themselves pushed off the cliff when ill-prepared to handle the risk.
Do you have risk management strategies for 2021?
- Are you over-extended financially?
- Do you rely too heavily on one supplier?
- How will you deal with ever increasing insurance costs?
- Is your technology and infrastructure up to date?
- How strong is your online presence?
- Do you have a solid plan for business continuity when disaster strikes?
- Are you able to ensure the safety and well-being of your employees?
A survey by Bluehost shows that businesses are both optimistic and cautious about what lies ahead:
44% said securing new customers is their biggest concern,
30% cited lingering economic impacts of Covid-19,
92% stressed having a strong online presence will be necessary to sell their products.
Next time you are standing on a cliff, wanting to start a new project, purchase equipment or increase your workforce, take the jump, and build your wings on the way down. It’s all about building your wings over and over again.
Watch this gosling take a leap of faith and jump off the side of the mountain. Never underrate the resilience of youth.