​Let's be honest—change isn't something we plan for once in a while anymore. It's part of our daily reality. Whether it's restructuring, leadership transitions, evolving member expectations, or a whole new system rollout, credit union leaders are dealing with more disruption than ever.

The question isn't whether things will shift again—it's how we lead when they do. And that's where resilience comes in. Not the kind that's about powering through or pretending everything's fine. Real resilience—the kind that helps you stay centered during uncertainty, lead with intention, and support your team through it all.

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WHAT IS WORKPLACE RESILIENCE?

Resilience isn't about avoiding hard things—it's about how we respond to them.

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Workplace resilience is the capacity of employees to navigate workplace stress, change, and challenges effectively—and maintain high performance and well-being while doing so.
— Gallup, How to Build Resilient Teams
 

 

For credit unions, resilience is how we live out "people helping people," especially when things get tough. The way we lead during uncertainty shapes how our teams show up—for members, for each other, and the future.

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THREE PARTS OF RESILIENT LEADERSHIP

Over the years—both in leading teams and in coaching others—I've seen how empowering resilience can be when it's practiced with intention. I've also seen what happens when it's missing: leaders burn out, teams disconnect, and even the best strategies start to unravel. In my experience, resilience shows up in three connected ways: our behaviors (how we lead and interact), our mindset (how we think and interpret), and the tools we rely on (what keeps us steady when things get hard).

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Let's break it down.
 

​​WHAT RESILIENT LEADERS DO

These are the everyday practices that help you and your team stay focused, flexible, and present:

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• Clear Communication: Say what needs to be said—clearly and respectfully. Clarity reduces second-guessing and creates stability in uncertain times.

• Collaboration: Resilient leaders know they don't have to carry it all alone. Strong relationships boost personal resilience, and asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• Adaptability: Think of a palm tree in a storm—deep roots, flexible trunk. When plans shift, resilient leaders adjust with intention while staying anchored to purpose.

• Problem Solving: Instead of getting stuck in what went wrong, resilient leaders focus on what's next. They stay calm, curious, and forward-looking.

• Energy Protection: Resilient leaders set boundaries, protect their energy, and model self-leadership so their teams can do the same.

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HOW RESILIENT LEADERS THINK

This is the inner work of leadership—the mindset that shapes how we respond when things get tough. 

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• Growth Mindset: We won't always get it right the first time. But when we view setbacks as learning—not failure—we build strength and confidence.
  Why it matters: It keeps you open, flexible, and focused on progress over perfection.

• Agency and Ownership: In a highly collaborative environment like a credit union, it's easy to feel pulled in every direction. Resilient leaders prioritize what they can influence. 
  Why it matters: It keeps you engaged and solution-oriented—even in uncertainty.

• Grounded Optimism: We believe in possibility, but we don't ignore reality. This mindset blends hope with action—staying clear-eyed about challenges while still believing in moving forward.
  Why it matters: It motivates action and helps others see possibility, too.

• Self-Compassion: Credit union leaders are known for showing empathy to members—but we don't always extend that same grace to ourselves. 
  Why it matters: It helps us sustain our energy and our impact.

• Curiosity: In service-driven work, it's easy to jump into problem-solving mode. But curiosity helps us slow down, ask better questions, and make better decisions.
  Why it matters: It builds understanding and connection—with members and within teams.

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TOOLS THAT HELP LEADERS STAY GROUNDED

These practical, day-to-day actions support both mindset and behavior:

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• Strengths-Based Resilience: Leaning into what you naturally do well builds confidence and clarity—especially in moments of uncertainty or change.

• Energy Management: Don't just manage your calendar—manage your energy. Build in recovery. Notice what drains or energizes you.

• Values + Purpose Alignment: When your work connects to something meaningful, you're more engaged and less reactive.

• Connection: You don't need a huge network, but you do need people you can trust. A quick peer check-in can reset your whole day. Relationships are fuel.

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BRINGING RESILIENCE TO YOUR TEAM

Resilient leadership doesn't require a major shift—just consistent intention. Try a quick "resilience huddle" with your team:

• "What helped you through a tough moment this week?"

• "Which of your strengths showed up today?"

• "What's one thing you could let go of to protect your energy?"

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These simple conversations build trust, clarity, and momentum.

 

Want help getting started? Download my Resilience In Action Huddle Guide—built for busy leaders like you.

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FINAL THOUGHT

Resilience isn't about perfection. It's how we respond, reset, and reconnect—with ourselves, with each other, and with our mission.You don't have to do everything at once. Just start with one step. One shift. One conversation. 

Let's make resilience part of how we lead—every day.

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Carolyn Reeves, MS, SPHR, ACC, CUDE, is a workplace consultant and leadership coach who partners with leaders to build high-performing teams and positive cultures. With over 20 years of talent development experience—including 16 years in a senior position at a $30 billion credit union—she provides practical, real-world guidance, always focused on what drives lasting success: people.​