What can this koala tell us about resilience?

Take a moment to consider the Australian state of Victoria. Over the course of several weeks this year, the temperature soared above 44 degrees with burning wind, out-of-control bushfires and catastrophic power outages. We still continue to hear about the toll of devastation in human lives, domestic animals, wildlife and property. Yet amongst all this, emerge stories of hope and inspiration like this wild koala’s response to overwhelming environmental obstacles.

Koalas are relatively shy and retiring, rarely venturing by choice into human populations by day, let alone interact with them. In fact they can be highly aggressive and dangerous if disturbed or cornered. Yet, in the face of unrivalled heat, this koala’s survival instinct led it onto the verandah of a house to seek water. It overcame its natural aversion to humans, accepted their water, had a bath in it and posed for a photo.

What do we do when our back is against the wall in hard business or economic times? Just sit back and wait for our boss, our union, our government, or our bank to do something about it? Or are we dissatisfied enough to rattle our own comfort zone and try something a little or a lot different, before we get past the point of no return.

Why not try something different for yourself - Learn something new at a free seminar, network face to face with new people, ask someone you know for help, look through the on-line job sites, book an appointment with a career coach, try temping instead of permanent work, get to know how Linked In, Plaxo or Facebook can expand your networks.

Maybe try something diffferent for your business - control costs by cutting back on excessive policies or eliminating unproductive product lines. Look to your supply chain for partnerships and deals or improve your skills in managing uncertainty by attending a seminar, buying a book, listening to an expert.

You never know, there might be the hand of help or a door of opportunity just waiting for you to open. But only if you take the first step.

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