On October 28, 2010, students in Navy SEALs qualification training were seen navigating the surf off the coast of Coronado during a maritime operations training exercise. The rigorous 26-week program is designed to take students from a basic level to a more advanced degree of technical and tactical operations. The Navy SEALs, as the maritime component of U.S. Special Operations Forces, are trained to conduct a variety of operations from the sea, air, and land.
Lt Gen Sir Adrian Paul Ghislain Carton de Wiart, a Belgian-born military figure, showcased exceptional resilience and leadership during times of adversity. His remarkable life story is filled with extraordinary feats of courage, determination, and resilience that served as immense inspiration to those he led.
During World War I, Carton de Wiart was captured by the Germans but managed to escape captivity twice, despite losing his left eye and left hand in the process. He sustained a total of eleven injuries during the war, including wounds to the face, head, stomach, ankle, leg, hip, and ear. Despite these adversities, he continued to lead his teams with unwavering courage and determination, earning accolades such as the Victoria Cross.
In World War II, Carton de Wiart's resilience was once again tested when he refused evacuation after being seriously wounded by a shell blast that broke both his legs. Leading his troops from a hospital bed, he exemplified extraordinary leadership qualities and unwavering determination.
High-performance teams today are defined as groups of individuals who collaborate effectively to achieve exceptional results and exceed expectations. Resilient leaders are essential in building such teams, which demonstrate strategic acumen, mental fortitude, and dedication to organizational success.
Research on resilience in teams highlights key factors such as shared mental models, positive communication patterns, adaptive coping strategies, emotional regulation, psychological safety, team learning, and supportive leadership. These elements contribute to enhancing team resilience and performance in the face of challenges, ultimately fostering a culture of continuous improvement and growth.
Reflecting on these insights can help teams identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth, paving the way for enhanced resilience and success in navigating complex business landscapes.
