Matt Fitzgerald was a world-class athlete, author, and public speaker. He loved to get out and run. So much so that he completed 50 marathons. One of those was with a 2-hour, 39-minute, and 30-second pace.
But something happened to Matt…
Photo by Hubert Buratynski on Unsplash
Matt came down with COVID-19. He recovered from his illness, but yet another issue arose. He began to suffer from long COVID. While there is no universal definition of long COVID, long COVID sufferers experience COVID-like symptoms for weeks, months, and even years. Some of those symptoms may be:
- Extreme tiredness
- Brain fog
- Dizziness or light-headedness
These symptoms can make it hard for one to do what they love to do. For Matt, that has been long-distance running. He’s been unable to run or exercise for over three years. I feel for Matt. After my COVID-19 battle, I’ve struggled to return to running, improving my fitness, and concentrating.
Despite this, Matt has found a way to pivot what he loves to do but can’t into something he can help others do. I believe what Matt is doing can also be applied to leaders when they can no longer lead effectively.
3 Things To Do When You Can No Longer Lead Your Organization Effectively
You may not have come down with COVID-19 and the effects of long COVID. However, you may notice a mental decline, physical ailments, or other issues that keep you from leading your organization.
The great news is that you can pivot. You can shift what you’re doing and still do what you love.
Bring people together:
One of the things Matt has begun to do is organize daily group runs. He brings other runners together and unites them. These runners can get out and do what they love. Matt gets to make this a reality for them.
Could you form a round-table or mastermind group to bring leaders together? These groups would help leaders sharpen their mental capacities, learn from others, and continue to grow.
Think about what you could do here.
Coach others:
Matt also created Dream Run Camp. The camp is where runners can be trained by one of the best. He organizes those group runs I mentioned earlier, offers coaching office hours, and more. He’s helping people do what he cannot do.
You have years upon years of experience leading organizations and people. It would be a shame if all your wisdom went to waste. Find others that you can coach. Pass on your wisdom.
People will be glad you took the time to share what you know with them.
Prepare for a comeback:
I was shocked to hear that while Matt cannot run, he signed up for the Javelina Jundred, a 100-kilometer ultramarathon in Arizona. It sounds wild but he is putting himself out there for a comeback. He knows he can begin pushing himself, setting goals, and returning to what he loves.
Are you willing to prepare for a comeback to leadership even when it seems impossible? When you feel as if you don’t have it in you? Set goals, create milestones, and sign up for something challenging. The more you push yourself to get back on the horse, the sooner you can accomplish what you desire.
