The Upside of Worst-Case Thinking
From Becoming Unshakable With Heather R. Younger · 36:53
Show by Heather R. Younger, J.D.
What if thinking through the worst case could help you feel steadier, rather than more afraid? In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, I talk with Brian Hilberdink, a pharmaceutical industry leader, about facing uncertainty and moving forward. Brian has worked across Canada, Denmark, the United States, and Germany, leading teams through career changes, product decisions, and shifting business priorities. He shares how moving internationally challenged him and his family, and how setbacks at work sometimes felt like the end of a path he had worked hard to build. With time, he learned that a difficult outcome often still leaves room to adapt, find another opportunity, and grow from the experience. We discuss what worst-case thinking can look like when it is used as preparation rather than a source of panic. Brian explains how playing out possible outcomes can help people recognize their options and show up with greater confidence. Brian and I explore how leaders can steady a team during uncertainty by giving people a shared goal, celebrating progress, and helping one another stay accountable. He reflects on the difference between being nice and being kind, and why building the right team sometimes means making difficult decisions. He also shares a lesson he is still practicing: assume good intentions before deciding that a question or challenge is meant to undermine you. This conversation is about staying grounded while change unfolds, making space for people to process their emotions, and finding a practical next step when the future feels unclear. Brian's advice invites us to examine the stories we tell ourselves and ask what options we still have. When you imagine the worst case, does it help you prepare, or does it keep you from taking a chance today? Listen to my conversation with Brian and share your thoughts with me.
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