One of the questions I often ask teams at the beginning of a working session uncovers the forces for change operating on their company: "What are the most pressing realities facing your company today, both internally and externally?" Regardless of the organization level of the team, I suggest they answer this question with their CEO hat on. Before moving on to the point of this blog, think about that question for yourself. What are the most pressing realities facing YOU today? Make a list - you could either write it down, or make the list in your head. Quick tip: I suggest you write it down for two reasons. First, it's easier to remember. More importantly, the list of your current realities will seem much more manageable on paper than they will if you leave them floating around in your head, where they will wait until it's time to sleep to bring your attention to them. Back to working with teams. No matter what ends up on their list, a palpable sense of overwhelm enters the room as we catalog the many realities they face. One of the unspoken dilemmas they often experience, both as teams and individuals, is the question of whether or not they are up for the challenges they face. The world is rapidly becoming more complex, and the pressure to perform keeps growing. Most of the realities that hit the list are outside their control: regulatory environment, political climate, the rise of technology/artificial intelligence, supply chain disruptions, workforce challenges, ...