Cuttlefish can blend in with their surroundings so well you may never see them hiding in colorful coral. Somehow tubeworms turn the only toxic bacteria in their environment into nourishing food. And wood frogs freeze their bodies solid during winter to later thaw and come back to life when temperatures rise. All these animals have adapted to their environments over time.
Another curious creature that is learning to adapt right now? Working parents—especially those who lead teams.
While I’m envious of that wood frog (I’d love to be able to freeze and wake up next spring and this whole pandemic be over), I know I must adapt in these ever-changing times. Like most company leaders with school-age children, I’m trying to keep my head above water at work, supporting my staff and helming a virtual team, while acclimating and navigating my son’s virtual learning. I know my family is depending on me to keep it all running smoothly, just like my colleagues and direct reports.