To Reinvent Your Company, Reinvent Yourself

As if the non-stop economic challenges of the past two years weren't bad enough, a hidden crisis is beginning to emerge from the economic rubble of 2007-08: Corporate leaders have to deal with a challenge for which they are completely unprepared.

Companies are increasingly recognizing that today's turbulent times require nothing short of continual reinvention. Weathering today's storm isn't enough. Companies have to develop repeatable processes that regularly renew their firms before the next crisis hits. This kind of renewal must begin with the leaders themselves.Companies have to build a "dual core" culture that excels at building new growth businesses while harnessing the full potential of existing businesses. It is a tough challenge. Consider the seemingly paradoxical demands this challenge places on leaders' plates:

We have to focus on running operations with laser-like precision without stifling creativity
Attention to detail and focus on numbers has allowed me to progress in my career, but too much detail or number orientation can crowd out innovation. Hyper-competitive markets with shrinking windows of competitive advantage mean that leaders have to develop these skills, and fast.

There's no silver bullet to address this challenge, but the following three tips can help leaders begin the necessary process of personal reinvention.

1.--Work with a human resources executive to develop a personalized development program.
2.--Start a "nights and weekend" activity rife with ambiguity
3.--Consciously complicate your life by brushing up against other disciplines. It's a long-held view that innovation often occurs when different disciplines intersect.