Adaptive Leadership

The Definition of Adaptive Leadership

In a constantly changing world people need to find a way to accept and thrive...

Spongebob Squarepants, Nickelodeon

And the people who initiate the acceptance and shifting of these changes are Adaptive Leaders.

So, What is the formal definition of Adaptive Leadership?

Adaptive Leadership can be defined as, “A practical leadership framework that helps individuals and organizations adapt and thrive in challenging environments. It is being able, both individually and collectively, to take on the gradual but meaningful process of change.” (Cambridge Leadership Associates).

So pretty much Adaptive Leadership...

is about the adaptations required of people in response to changing environments and how leaders can support them during these changes.

Adaptive Leadership Requires:

The leader to step back from the situation to get a bigger picture of the dynamics amongst the participants.

The leader then determines if the change creates challenges that can be solved specifically or if the challenge is more complex.

If specific, then the leader must prescribe rules and procedures.

If complex, then the leader must behave to move the process forward.

In my life I was an adaptive leader...

When I was presented with this very project. My group and I had the challenge of trying to find a way to standout from the rest of our class.

When I thought about the larger picture of the project and advances in technology. I decided to suggest that we do an online blog instead of a print book. Blogs are much more user-friendly and more common with our generation. It would make our project standout and be more effective. Knowing that my team is very openminded and creative I presented them with the solution and coached them through the process. I encouraged them to adapt to the changing environment of print media vs. online media and I believe it has made our book more successful.

While this is just a small example in my life. I recently recognized an adaptive leader in a new feature film.

Read the article Dorothy Vaughan, Hidden Figures: An Adaptive Leader to find out more!