Unlocking Brilliance Through Resilience:
Lessons from Simon T. Bailey
In today’s high-speed world of deadlines, demands, and digital overload, resilience isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a leadership essential. On this powerful episode of the Leadership Lifter Talk Podcast, leadership strategist and author Simon T. Bailey brings a timely reminder that the key to thriving—at work, in relationships, and in our walk with God—starts from within.
With practical insight and spiritual depth, Simon unpacks how faith-fueled resilience and everyday brilliance can shape how we lead, how we connect, and how we rise—no matter what life throws our way.
Hurry, Worry, Ready & Steady: The Characters of Internal Conflict
Simon introduces us to four symbolic characters—Hurry, Worry, Ready, and Steady—to reflect the mental and emotional battles many Christians face. In a fast-paced world where “hurry” is the default and “worry” is the opposite of faith, Simon encourages listeners to embrace “ready and steady”—a mindset grounded in peace, problem-solving, and quiet strength.
Resilience as a Spiritual Superpower
When asked how spiritually “stuck” individuals can reclaim peace and purpose, Simon challenges listeners to recall past wins, consult trusted community members, and remember what they uniquely bring to the table. “Sometimes, you can’t see the picture when you’re in the frame,” he says—reminding us that self-awareness and outside perspective are keys to moving forward.
Thriving in a Draining Workplace
For those working in environments where they feel undervalued, Bailey suggests creating uplifting spaces during non-work hours, affirming others publicly, and consistently asking colleagues one simple question: “How are you?” These small actions can be transformative, helping people feel seen, valued, and understood—something Simon cites as core human needs.
The Power of Reflective Questions
To uncover your God-given brilliance, Simon offers three soul-stirring questions:
What would I do if I knew I couldn’t fail?
What would I do if no one paid me to do it?
What makes me come alive?
He calls these questions a “quest”—one that leads us closer to purpose, passion, and fulfillment.
Faith, Gratitude, and the Path Forward
From daily gratitude to verbal appreciation in relationships, Simon emphasizes the power of intentional presence. Whether navigating relational strain or professional disappointment, choosing to see what’s going well helps steer our perspective forward—like grabbing the wheel and focusing on the road ahead.
Riding the Waves of Life and Leadership
“Life is like surfing,” Simon says. “You’ll get knocked off your board, but resilience is the faith that helps you get back on. Your brilliance is what lets you catch the next wave.” Whether in business or ministry, his encouragement is clear: Don’t just survive the storm—learn to ride it with grace and strength.
Learn more about Simon T. Bailey’s book, Resilience at Work: How to Coach Yourself Into a Thriving Future, on Amazon.
Follow Simon T. Bailey on Instagram and LinkedIn: @SimonTBailey
Listen to the full conversation with Simon T. Bailey on the Leadership Lifter Podcast.
Listen Leadership Lifter Podcast on YouTube or on davidblunt.org