To lead today, you must be ready for a world that refuses to stand still.
A recent letter from Bridgewater Associates* describes our current environment as a once-in-a-generation transformation—a radical economic and geopolitical reshuffling that is dismantling the old world order and challenging everything we thought we knew about global business. The macro winds have changed. The pillars of globalization, easy money, and U.S. market dominance are crumbling, replaced by modern mercantilism, increased nationalistic policies, and disruptive technological advances like AI.
Bridgewater’s three key observations are a wake-up call for all leaders:
- The geopolitical and macroeconomic playbook has changed — We’re witnessing a rise in nation-first economics, active government intervention, and trade realignments.
- Investment portfolios built for the past are now fragile — US-dominated growth strategies are exposed in this new era.
- AI is bringing profound technological disruption — Yet, like the internet in the 1990s, it’s unclear who the long-term winners will be.
Why This Matters for Leaders — And How I Found My Edge at Johnson & Johnson
During my 40+ year journey at Johnson & Johnson, I lived through multiple paradigm shifts—from product recalls and regulatory overhauls to global expansions and digital revolutions. Each time, the rules changed. And each time, we had to find our edge again.
When we created a new $650M+ medical device franchise in a crowded market, it wasn’t luck—it was leadership that embraced uncertainty, collaborated across disciplines, and moved fast with clarity.
When we improved our pharmaceutical supply chain to become a top-tier global operation, it was because we refused to cling to outdated systems. Instead, we invested in bold innovation, like our “Janssen Genius” digital transformation strategy, which cut time-to-market and boosted operational efficiency.
What did those moments teach me?
- That turbulence is not a threat—it’s a test.
- That resilience is built by aligning around vision and executing with precision.
- And most importantly, that the real differentiator is how quickly and strategically you respond when the world moves beneath your feet.
Lead Like a Leader: Your Call to Action
This is not a time for passive management. It’s a time for personal leadership mastery.
✅ Reevaluate your assumptions. What worked in the past may now be a liability.
✅ Build adaptive teams. Hire for curiosity, resilience, and execution speed.
✅ Invest in your own edge. Stay mentally, physically, and strategically fit—because your edge is not fixed, it’s earned.
At LeadLIKEALEADER.org, our mission is to help you build the mindset, habits, and playbook to lead through chaos, create from challenge, and accelerate your growth—just as I did leading through J&J’s most defining moments.
The new world isn’t waiting. Will you lead it—or chase it?
*bridgewater.com/research
Lead Like a Leader 
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