The present era of late modernity has many defining characteristics but none more accurately delineates this period then globalization, interdependence of nation states and the onset of localized events with global ramifications. In the recent past, we have witnessed Chernobyl and Fukushima disasters, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the present coronavirus global pandemic. Each of the aforementioned calamities originated as localized happenings that resulted in significant global consequences for governments, organizations, and households. Late modernity, therefore consequently, yields a risk adverse society exacerbated by uncertainty and chance where we have little influence over factors that are outside of our control.

As a former United States Marine, business owner and entrepreneur, business consultant and investor, I have grown to realize, and accept, that the environs of business is often liken to turbulent stormy seas, forever will be besieged by uncertainty and chance. Uncertainty coupled with chance frequently breads a crippling mind-set of fear, inaction or wrong deeds, and void of a strategy; the actions of leaders become impetuous possibly leading to unintended consequences and folly. Whether speaking of governments, military, organizations, or households, leaders of those institutions must distinguish between skill sets and one’s disposition when it comes to responding to crisis.

In the present coronavirus global pandemic, I have witnessed individuals and leaders of organizations from many diverse backgrounds respond to this crisis in a myriad of ways. Some have responded with stress, anxiety, feelings of being overwhelmed, fear and hopelessness in the face of financial ruin. While others seem to proceed with business as normal demonstrating good courage, steadfastness, and feelings of calm and comfort originating from their disaster preparedness plans. Yet, others find comfort and courage in faith while, at times, vacillating between the aforementioned groups. Whichever group(s) we fall into, the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have serious effects on individuals and society.

What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before…

Notwithstanding, all leaders, whether in governments, military, organizations or households must continuously self-evaluate his or her disposition for preparedness, the ability to respond to a crisis with speed, adaptability, resoluteness, precision while gaming strategies in response to crisis. Our disposition and how a leader responds to a crisis, is made from conscious choices. It is our disposition that lead us away from reason and good success towards folly and outcomes that are fraught with unintended consequences. Tomorrow will bring with it a new day, but with new and old challenges. As King Solomon correctly admonished: “What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before…”

For the leader going forward, our challenge is to be ready and game appropriate strategies of mitigation for future crisis.