Great leaders are almost always great simplifiers, who can cut through argument, debate, and doubt to offer a solution everybody can understand.

—General Colin Powell

Over the past few weeks I explored the role that leaders play in looking ahead and preparing for what might be looming on the horizon.  This discussion came to the forefront of my thinking because the month of September was National Preparedness Month in the United States. OK, so now it is October and it’s time to move on to another topic – well, sort of…

Last week I discussed the leadership quality of being willing – and the ability – to “look ahead” and ascertain “what is or could be occurring.”  As I mentioned then, this is an essential quality for those who are in leadership.  While it can indeed be difficult to accurately assess the current situation, size up the factors that are affecting where we are headed, foresee what is on the horizon, and determine what to do in light of the potential realities, there are things we can do to prepare.

A personal experience last week reminds me to continue to be grateful…