Leaders face numerous tests that define their leadership. Arnold Glasow said, “One of the tests of leadership is the ability to recognize a problem before it becomes an emergency.”

How is it possible? Here are a few suggestions.

Accept that problems will happen. Denying or ignoring potential problems only invites an emergency.

Practice listening skills. Many problems can be detected sooner if leaders listen more carefully.

Ask appropriate questions. At the first sign of a problem, ask questions that pertain to the situation.

Learn from the past. Lessons learned from previous experience provide a foundation for the future.

These suggestions are initial steps in the right direction.