The Unadvertised Version of Leadership: Adversity
Leadership in 180 Seconds: Lessons I have learnt as a leader that few talk about
Adversity isn’t a detour—it’s the path to greater influence.
In this episode, we explore how embracing hardship can shape your leadership, deepen your wisdom, and strengthen your impact. Inspired by Aimee Mullins’ story, discover why adversity, when embraced, becomes a catalyst for growth, gratitude, and courageous leadership.
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Aimee Mullins in her brilliant Ted Talk, The Opportunity of Adversity shares her story. She was born missing the fibula bones. Both legs had to be cut off below the knee. She goes on to speak about the adversity she had to face, in particular with societal understanding of disabled persons. At 15 years of age, if Aimee had been given the opportunity to have real legs, she would have jumped at the opportunity. But, with a few more years and a little more wisdom, she came to treasure the adversity and opportunities that arose because of her circumstances.
Aimee now recognises that adversity is not something to get around or bypass. She recognises that adversity is something that, if embraced, becomes an experience that develops us, shapes us, it helps us to push harder, to re-think the status quo, to find innovative solutions, and in the end to become a better, wiser and more beautiful person.
As leaders, we will experience adversity regularly. I have come to realise that the higher we find ourselves in leadership, the more adversity we must face.
Aimee’s Ted Talk encourages you to embrace your Adversity, and here are two reason why I believe this is helpful.
Firstly, when we embrace adversity, we stop feeling like we are the victim and come to realise that we are still in control. I may not be in control of the circumstances, but I am in control of how I react. When we look at adversity like this, it starts to shrink, it becomes easier to work with.
Secondly, we find ourselves being more grateful. If adversity is going to help me become a better person, then I become grateful for the opportunity!
So I encourage you today or for whenever you find yourself in the midst of difficulty. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow and develop through the adversity. When it feels too deep, make sure you find someone who can support you. A good coach, family and counsellors can help us to come out the other side better, stronger and wiser. The strength and courage you show in embracing adversity will give you greater influence amongst your followers and will teach them that adversity is merely a challenge that we are going to celebrate once we have overcome.