Why Self-Leadership is a Superpower in a VUCA World

VUCA is an acronym for Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity. First coined by the U.S. Army War College in 1987, it was designed as a leadership training model to help navigate unpredictable and high-stakes situations in warfare. In many ways, business operates in a similarly unpredictable landscape, often requiring a mindset that can thrive amid adversity.

Leadership can be external or internal. External leadership is exemplified by military service, where a clear chain of command dictates decisions from the top down. While individual soldiers must exercise some level of initiative in the field, the overarching strategy is determined by higher-ranking officers. In contrast, self-leadership is an internal process. It involves defining one’s purpose, creating a vision, self-motivating to achieve goals, assessing the best path forward, and taking full responsibility for both successes and failures. In essence, the structured leadership found in military hierarchies is replicated within a single individual. Notably, self-leadership is one of the four key quadrants in McKinsey’s list of 56 foundational skills for career growth and advancement.

VUCA encapsulates the unpredictable elements that can arise in any situation, making problem-solving less straightforward. By cultivating a self-leadership mindset, individuals develop confidence, resilience, adaptability, and the mental fortitude needed to navigate uncertainty and complexity. Over time, this ability to manage the unexpected becomes a personal and professional superpower.

In an era defined by rapid change and unpredictability, self-leadership is not just an asset—it’s a necessity. By embracing this mindset, individuals and organizations alike can turn challenges into opportunities, fostering innovation, growth, and long-term success. The ability to lead oneself effectively is the foundation for leading others and shaping a future where resilience and adaptability define the path forward.