James R. Rector
Publisher, Profiles in Leadership Journal

Every team hits the wall. Projects drag, energy fades, motivation runs thin. The breakthrough often lies just beyond this wall, but only if the leader can help the team catch a second wind.

The second wind comes from encouragement, reframing, or even a short pause. Leaders remind people of progress already made, reset goals into smaller wins, and celebrate effort as much as outcomes. These actions restore momentum when fatigue threatens to end it.

Strong leaders watch for the signs of exhaustion and step in before the wall becomes permanent. They know that resilience is built not by avoiding struggle but by continuing through it.

At Home

Families hit the wall too. Children preparing for exams, parents facing long weeks, or relatives caring for elders all need encouragement. A word of hope, a brief rest, or a reframed perspective can give everyone a second wind.

Your question: Where is your team or family close to the wall, and how can you help them find their second wind?

About the series: The 3-Minute Leader™ is a weekly micro-essay for emerging and promotable executives.

James Rector

James Rector

James Rector is the founder and publisher of Profiles in Leadership Journal, a publication that has honored over 2,500 leaders in its 27-year history. His work focuses on spotlighting individuals whose character, courage, and quiet consistency shape the future of leadership.