Blog

The recent Space Station incident, which stranded astronauts in space for 9 months longer than their 8-day mission, is a reminder that changes will happen.  Sometimes, big changes.  How we prepare for the unexpected and how we respond to inevitable change is a key indicator of our character.  We can learn much from the curves we encounter and even more from how we handle them.

You cannot do this business without trust.  You have to have ultimate trust.

And for someone to step forward in these different organizations and say, ‘Hey, I’m culpable for part of that issue,’ that goes a long way to maintaining trust.

— Butch Wilmore, NASA Astronaut

It began as an 8-day mission, but unexpected failures made it a 9-month adventure. Shortly after launch, the malfunctions began, leaving them unable to dock or return. So they had to stay in orbit while the issues were investigated. That took a while!

They recently returned to earth, completing the dramatic and unplanned journey. Wilmore and Williams shared stories of resilience and adaptability in the post-flight interviews that are noteworthy because of their unique level of maturity and wisdom. 

Even the unexpected setbacks can bring new and positive possibilities.
If you so choose, you can find value and fulfillment in every circumstance.

— Ralph Marston

Like many of our plans for this year or even for today, interruptions often happen. And because we're human beings working with human beings, we're at our best when we're ready for those curves that can throw us off and trigger a trust divide.

Sometimes it's the learning curves that force us to lead outside of our comfort zone.  Or it's those curve balls coming straight at us that cause us to flinch and lose focus. How we handle the unexpected is the most accurate revelation of our true character.

Our path is a curvy one with unending surprises, but we still have choices to make.

Start by asking better questions, staying curious and aware of the potential risks.

Stay anchored in faith that enables sustaining a healthy perspective in the moment.

See the opportunities for growth rather than falling into the endless abyss of blame.

Share responsibility in the decisions to take ownership and move forward together.

Seek to restore trust because we can't do this work without those deep connections.

When we courageously conquer the curves, we keep the trust that enables excellence.