My wife and I recently made a big decision to move so our two boys could attend the school district we believe offers the best prospects for their growth. This move is more than just a change of address — it’s a pivotal transition for our family, especially as our oldest prepares to enter middle school, a time full of new social and academic challenges, and our youngest leaves behind the comfort of an elementary school where he had friends and a strong support network.
Recognizing the significance of this transition, I called a family meeting. The goal? To reframe our shared experience and refocus us as a family unit stepping into a new chapter together.
Acknowledging Change and Embracing Opportunity
In the meeting, I openly acknowledged the many changes ahead: moving from the only home and neighborhood our boys have ever known, facing the challenge of making new friends, adjusting to unfamiliar schools, new routines, and different expectations. While it was important to validate the sadness and uncertainty that come with these changes, I emphasized the exciting opportunities that lie ahead—chances to build new friendships, create lasting memories, and demonstrate academic and personal growth.
For example, my youngest son, Miles, is joining a new academy soccer team under a different coach. Yes, there will be higher expectations and stronger competition, but this is also a chance for him to elevate his game and broaden his horizons. Contextualizing opportunities and providing direction to make the most of the moment creates a safe space to center ourselves to prepare for what’s ahead.
Drawing Parallels to Leadership in Business
As I reflected on this family meeting, I couldn’t help but draw parallels to the world of business leadership—especially in today’s volatile market and slowing economy. It’s easy for leaders to get caught up in the risks and threats, fixating on what could go wrong and missing out on opportunities to sharpen skills and innovate.
Everyone, from family units to business units, feels like the future is a question mark. There’s no “new normal,” or “next normal,” or even “return to normal.” So how should leaders guide conversations about opportunities and challenges?
Just like in family transitions, business leaders must consciously reframe the narrative around change. Instead of seeing uncertainty as purely a threat, they can view it as fertile ground for growth—challenging teams to adapt, excel, and find new ways to succeed. In times of chaos and turmoil, leadership clarity around change is a competitive advantage.
Key Leadership Lessons from Our Family Meeting
- Open Communication Creates Trust
By gathering the family to discuss changes candidly, we built a foundation of trust. Leaders who encourage honest dialogue with their teams create environments where people feel heard, supported, and ready to face challenges together.
- Acknowledging Emotions While Focusing on Opportunity
Validating feelings of loss or uncertainty helps people process change. But pairing that acknowledgment with a clear vision of opportunity helps shift the mindset from fear to possibility.
- Setting Clear Expectations and Goals
Discussing the new routines and expectations prepares everyone mentally. Similarly, leaders should clarify what success looks like in new circumstances—whether it’s adapting to a market shift or embracing new strategic priorities.
- Embracing Change as a Catalyst for Growth
Change forces us out of comfort zones. Whether it’s a child facing new competition or a company navigating economic headwinds, leaders who embrace change can unlock hidden potential and resilience.
- Supporting Development Through Transitions
Just as my son Miles will need support to thrive under a new coach, employees need guidance and resources to succeed through organizational changes. Leadership is about providing that support while encouraging independence.
Learning from Leading
Leadership lessons don’t only come from corporate boardrooms or industry conferences—they often come from the everyday moments and conversations that shape our lives. Our family meeting was a reminder that leadership is fundamentally about empathy, clarity, and the courage to face change head-on.
For business leaders today, reframing volatility as an opportunity rather than a setback can be the key to navigating uncertain times with confidence and success.
