Leadership in Uncertain Times: Profiles in Inspiration and Influence

Introduction In no times in our collective memory has the public health enterprise faced such unprecedented challenges. In public health agencies across the nation at the federal, state, and local levels, public health leaders are faced with an array of decisions and dilemmas as they attempt to discern the path ahead. In this context of uncertainty, courageous leaders are exerting influence and, in doing so, offer sources of inspiration to others. This column attempts to offer profiles of these sources of wisdom and commitment. The Current Context As readers of this column know, the central role of CDC, the nation’s prevention agency, is being handicapped by a range of policies leading to an atmosphere of uncertainty, isolation, and fear. State and local public health leaders who rely on CDC partnerships are also faced with a range of uncertainties. Nongovernmental organizations and academic public health institutions are also feeling the impacts of unprecedented measures which threaten and disrupt decades-old relationships. As a result, the entire US public health system is living in troubling times. Furthermore, the broader climate in which public health is practiced continues to create leadership challenges. Seeds of misinformation regarding the efficacy of proven public health interventions, such as immunizations, have eroded trust in the wisdom of public health leaders across the nation. Guiding Principles for Leadership in Uncertain Times Despite these very real challenges and sources of uncertainty, public health leaders today are serving as examples of dedicated service to the health of the public across the nation. In doing so, these leaders have adopted a set of guiding principles which serve them well: Renewing One’s Commitment to the Public Health Mission Many public health leaders are now renewing their commitment to the ideals that have governed their careers. In the words of one public health leader with 3 decades of public health service: “Public health threats are still here, and We are Here to Stay.” As these inspiring leaders and others recommit to serving the health of the public, certain fundamental questions come to mind: What fuels your passion for public service? Where (who) are your sources of inspiration? What are you proudest of in your public health career? Through these personal reflections, these courageous leaders are fostering a climate of commitment to guide the way into the future. Focusing on the Present—Influence vs. Control As noted in a prior Management Moment column, the essence of leadership revolves around exerting influence.1 Since many of the troubling developments noted above fall far beyond the realm of control, leaders are now called upon to exert influence in the face of limited (or no) control of current events. If so, how might leaders proceed? A basic leadership practice is focusing on the present by asking “What must I do today?” Further, celebrating small victories won in the face of real challenges and uncertainties can reinforce the value of adopting a focus on the present. Practicing the Art of the Long View In the words of another inspiring leader with decades of public health experience: “I am looking over the horizon while also acknowledging the need to maintain a focus on the present.” This leader is committed to doing what he can do now while maintaining a mindset that adopts The Art of the Long View.2 In this setting, persistence in the face of uncertainty constitutes a survival strategy geared to maintaining core organizational capacity that will carry through over time. By adopting this longer-term mindset, leaders are positioning their organizations for a future well beyond these troubling times. Caring for Body, Mind, and Spirit When asked how another inspiring leader was dealing with these uncertain times, her answer was simple: “My Faith and My Friends.” As one who came to the US to work in public health following extremely troubling times in her home country, she now serves as a model of resilience and strength for others. In addition to the time-tested ways of caring for one’s body through daily exercise and sound diet, one can also become more intentional about one’s daily “information diet.” Many are now limiting their exposure to the toxic effects of the daily news cycle. To displace a tendency to “check on the news,” many turn to more timeless sources of wisdom. By caring for the state of one’s mind, these leaders are cultivating a reservoir of positive energy which they need as they exert positive influence and serve as a source of inspiration. Finally, as noted in the quote above, a recommitment to some form of timeless spiritual practice may be valuable as a foundation to guide effective leadership. Conclusion: Continuing to Fight for Public Health Across the nation, public health leaders at all levels are now renewing their commitment to serving the health of the public. In doing so, they lead by example while acknowledging the real uncertainties of these troubling times. By telling and retelling the stories of what has fueled their passion for public health work, public health leaders are serving as sources of inspiration and influence. These stories speak to the timeless values of public health leaders which have served them as guiding lights in the past. Finally, these profiles in courageous leadership convey the message that these commitments will persevere well beyond these troubling times.