The Vigilant Leader Lesson 1: What is Vigilant Leadership?

Vigilant leadership is about steering through uncertainty, much like navigating a ship in foggy waters. In this lesson, you’ll discover how vigilant leaders go beyond immediate concerns, scanning for early signs of change and preparing for potential disruptions before they materialize. We’ll explore how vigilant leaders differ from traditional leaders by consistently looking ahead—analyzing market shifts, emerging competitors, and technological advancements with strategic foresight. Through real-world examples like Kodak’s missed opportunity, you’ll learn the value of staying curious and maintaining an anticipatory mindset that can mean the difference between adapting and being left behind. This lesson introduces the foundational mindset of vigilant leadership: constant awareness, readiness for the unexpected, and a proactive approach to navigating change.