It’s been one heck of a (political) week, eh?!
For me, Sunday, July 21, 2024 started as most do: I watched “CBS Sunday Mornings,” went for a late morning five mile walk afterward, followed by brunch al fresco.
Since I wasn’t checking my phone during my walk or brunch, I was unaware of the breaking news unfolding in real-time.
When I came back into the house and turned on the television, that particular Sunday became an historically significant one.
That’s when I heard the shocking news: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. was suspending his 2024 presidential campaign race.
I was devastated.
I was not in the camp that Biden should step aside.
I was hoping he’d stay the course. Because I believe his administration has had some major accomplishments as they work to address a wide range of issues – from the economy and economic growth to healthcare; climate change to social justice; and strengthening relationships with our allies throughout the world.
Plus, I still thought he had the greatest chance of beating the other presidential candidate.
And, also: he is a good man, in my opinion. His empathy and compassion, efforts to work across the aisle, and steadfast kindness are qualities I absolutely admire.
It’s Always Private & Personal, First
As I reflected on last week’s surprising turn of political developments, I was struck by the number of lessons you and I can take away from such a momentous time in American history.
Lesson #1 – We all make tough decisions
Before President Biden could make the tough decision to suspend his campaign, he had to reflect on his values, goals, and motivations, both personal and political.
He also had to gather information from various trusted parties and sources in order to “stress test” what he wanted to do versus what is believed to be the best next move to take.
He had to do a risk assessment looking at both sides of the risk equation – what could be lost by staying in the race or stepping aside relative to what’s the opportunity cost of the same two options.
He also had to do an emotional check-in to ensure he was truly “listening” to his inner voice, and not just the “outsiders” – who included the supportive voices of those who wanted him to stay the course along with the voices and concerns of those who did not.
And once he made the decision, he had to communicate it to his inner circle and then to the world.
I framed these as “he had to” without any insider access to his actual decision-making process.
Yet, I’m confident about the points I’ve just highlighted because these reflect the same steps you and I have to take (or at least benefit from doing so) when we, too, must make a tough decision.
In the end, regardless of who you are and who all will be impacted by what you choose to or choose not to do …
…making tough decisions is a universal experience requiring careful consideration, emotional strength, and self-trust.
Because, before you can let go, you have to make the decision to let go.
Pass the Baton
President Biden’s decision to suspend his campaign and endorse Vice President Harris is an example of…
The power of letting go and embracing new opportunities.
This profound lesson is not only true in the realm of politics, but also with regard to the decisions you and I make when it comes to money, business, and life.
Lesson #2 – How you pass the baton matters just as much as the actual passing of the baton!
In track and field, during relay races the moment one athlete passes the baton to the next is called the “exchange zone.”
President Biden handled the political version of this superbly!
He made his announcement about stepping aside.
He let it be absorbed by those of us who were shocked by it, giving us time to sit with our grief and wonder about what comes next.
Then, he made his next announcement – his absolute and resounding endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential race.
For those of us who were champions of the Biden/Harris ticket, this was yet another politically significant moment of the day.
Ready, Set, Move Forward
Within 48-hours of President Biden endorsing VP Harris, her campaign raised approx. $200M from “every day” donors and secured enough delegates in advance of the Democratic National Convention.
This didn’t “just happen.”
This was a by-product of work done in advance.
Lesson #3 – Have a contingency/succession plan
In the business world, having a strategy that outlines the steps to be taken in response to unexpected events or emergencies is called a contingency or succession plan.
(You and I should have the same, by the way!)
The stats that continue to be updated are a direct result of VP Harris’ campaign having a succession plan already in place.
They were ready and prepared to move forward – with a strategy, a message, and a purpose. One that honors the goals, values, and policies of the Biden/Harris administration, and…
That also reflects what will be “new” now that her vision, goals, and voice are taking center stage.
One of the reasons I say the baton was passed superbly is because of how seamless the transition has been.
It’s as if a beat has not been missed. That’s almost impossible with any undertaking, but especially one of this political nature and magnitude!
Have Fun!
Sometimes, letting go of what was is the best decision you can make, even if it doesn’t feel great at the moment.
However, doing so is what often opens the door to growth, innovation, and a brighter future.
President Biden passing the baton to Vice President Harris the way he did, coupled with the way her campaign handled the exchange zone with precision, is a lesson all unto itself.
Now add in the fact that they were ready and prepared to move forward with a clear strategy and message, sprinkled with a little fun on top, and you have an example and blueprint for applying these principles to your own life, money, and business.
Take heed and invite…
Lesson #4 – Have fun!
You, too, can navigate change with purpose, strategy, and a positive outlook, ultimately achieving greater success and fulfillment.
Even when it is the case you won’t know the ultimate outcome for days, weeks, or months…or heck, even years from when you make your tough decision!
