I have been startled to hear my own voice and those of my colleagues and clients qualifying certain business decisions dependent upon whether or not the United States is involved in war. We are in the midst of daunting times, and the uncertainty of our fate can be disheartening and demoralizing. People are being called upon to increase their creative thinking and to pull together in harmony, setting differences aside, so that departments and entire companies can be at their strongest. While the sentiment is easy to access, initiating and sustaining collaborative behaviors can be tough. Senior staff members each need to lead the way by taking a personal inventory to bring to the surface the possibility that there may be one person among the executive team that they 'tolerate.' Okay, you've tried to like him or her, you may have even initiated two or three connections in the past, only to be rebuffed. You've concluded now that the best you can do is stay cordial and keep interactions to a minimum. You've convinced yourself that there's little or no downside to the company from your lack of a relationship. You keep your people informed on what's important, and your own department is more than meeting its goals. And while goals are being measured and met, it's difficult, if not impossible, to truly sense the slow erosion of the strength and unity that occurs daily when two leaders don't get along. It's hard enough to uncover this with the help of a trained professional, much less on one's own. Having someone listen to your introspective process, and reflect the impact one's behaviors and attitudes can have on the department can be a critical adjunct to overall corporate success.

The coaching relationship beckons you to look more honestly at what makes you a good leader. And, too, it helps you unlock those places where you repeatedly get stuck—subtle though it may be—and helps move you through them, creating uncommon connections and manifesting focused results. Leading during times of crisis demands exceptional levels of courage, and having an executive coach in your corner can help you see how to turn even this age of vulnerability to your advantage. Strong leaders recognize the crucibles of everyday life and don't hesitate to accept the help needed to make the choices that are most productive-for themselves and for the whole.