From Resilience to Antifragility: Perspectives from Brain Science

From Resilience to Antifragility: Perspectives from Brain Science

The most recent pandemic has materially changed how people think, feel and live. For example, in a recent COVID-19 survey, two-thirds of people were either anxious or depressed and 80% of them said they were distressed. Many businesses and leaders are in “survival” mode, preoccupied with defending their employees and companies from potentially disastrous financial consequences1. In this new psychological, social and financial environment, how can leaders distinguish themselves and inspire their teams and help their businesses to succeed and thrive?

As a leader, you have to do more than navigate and survive this new level of uncertainty. The winners will find new ways to understand and embrace this new reality and become “antifragile”. The concept of antifragility is learning how to thrive in disorder. It goes beyond our typical notions of resilience- raising our defenses and ability to withstand conditions.

The classic example of antifragility is Hydra, a Greek mythological creature that has numerous heads. When one is cut off, two grow back in its place. When you are antifragile, you defy the norm:

• Uncertainty inspires you to grow
• You learn to love and thrive in disorder
• The resilient resists shocks and stays the same; the antifragile gets better.

While some leaders believe that they should throw themselves into sleepless nights and problem-solving, there is evidence to suggest that this kind of obsessive (as opposed to harmonious) passion will eventually lead to burnout. Now is the time to prevent physical and emotional exhaustion so that you can guide your company and team to long-term success.