Learning Corner: Leading in a VUCA World

Estimated Time to Complete: 20–25 minutes

Objective

To help leaders identify outdated leadership habits, understand the realities of a VUCA environment (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous), and practice adapting strategies that foster resilience and agility.

Materials Needed

• Pen/pencil

• Paper or journal (or digital notes app/word document)

• Timer or clock (optional, to stay on track)

Activity Steps

1. Reflect on 1998 Leadership (5 minutes)

• Using your paper or journal, jot down three traditional leadership traits from the late 1990s (e.g., rigid planning, command-and-control communication, slow decision-making).

• Ask yourself: Which of these no longer support effective leadership today?

2. Define Today’s VUCA Reality (5 minutes)

• Draw four columns and label them: Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous.

• For each column, list one current example from your workplace, industry, or world events that reflects these challenges.

3. Adapt Your Leadership Approach (8–10 minutes)

• Next to each example, brainstorm one strategy to address it. For example:

  • Volatile → Develop flexible plans with backup options.

  • Uncertain → Increase transparency and encourage open dialogue.

  • Complex → Break challenges into smaller, manageable parts.

  • Ambiguous → Invite diverse perspectives to clarify direction.

4. Commit to Action (2–3 minutes)

• Review your list and circle the ONE strategy that could make the biggest impact in your leadership right now.

• Write one small, concrete action step you’ll take this week to put it into practice.

This exercise equips you with a structured way to shift from outdated leadership habits to strategies built for today’s fast-changing, unpredictable environment.