Leading Well Through Turmoil

“Anyone can hold the helm while the sea is calm.” — Publilius Syrus

Today’s leaders are navigating turbulent waters. Sweeping changes in federal employment rules, shifts in DEI priorities across sectors, immigration enforcement adjustments, and other upheavals are creating waves of uncertainty. And with uncertainty comes fear—fear that stifles creativity, drains productivity, and erodes well-being.

How can leaders effectively steer their teams through this turmoil? Here are five essential practices:

1. Fill Your Own Cup First

Leading during uncertain times requires resilience. Start with self-care. People can sense when you’re running on empty, and it amplifies their own sense of unease. Prioritize restorative practices—turn off the news, aim for quality sleep, and choose healthy ways to decompress. Whether it’s a dance class or quiet time with a book, balance is key. It’s not about avoiding challenges but ensuring you have the energy to face them.

2. Start with Acknowledgment

Admiral James Stockdale’s paradox is a powerful reminder: “You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end—which you can never afford to lose—with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality.” Leaders don’t need to pretend everything is fine. Instead, acknowledge the challenges with honesty and empathy. It’s okay to admit you don’t have all the answers. This builds trust and shows that you’re navigating the storm alongside your team.

3. Share Information

Clear, consistent communication is a cornerstone of trust. When you share the information you know to be true—and do so transparently and repeatedly—you demonstrate reliability and foster confidence. This clarity helps dispel fear and anchors your team during uncertain times. Hiding in your office doesn’t help, I promise. If you’re unsure what to share, start with your own values and outline the steps moving forward. You could say, for instance, “I’m so grateful for the important work of this team and committed to continuing it. Please know that our leadership is staying up to date on changes, and I will share any new information as quickly as possible. ”

4. Inspire Connection

Human connection is a powerful antidote to fear. Create opportunities for your team to connect—whether it’s a casual brown bag lunch, a shared Spotify playlist, or a fun Slack trivia challenge. These small moments of connection strengthen relationships and spark joy, which can make all the difference when morale is low.

5. Fill Your Cup, Again

Leadership is demanding, especially during upheaval. Colin Powell said it well: “The leader sets the tone.” Supporting your team takes energy, and that energy must be replenished daily. Commit to self-care as a non-negotiable part of your leadership practice.

Leading well in times of turmoil isn’t about having all the answers or being invincible. It’s about showing up with authenticity, caring for yourself, and fostering trust and connection with your team.

In the face of uncertainty, your leadership can be a steady beacon. By embracing these practices, you not only navigate the storm—you inspire resilience and hope in those around you. Remember, even in the roughest seas, calm and clarity begin with you.

?Katharine Manning provides training, consultation, and coaching on empathy at work. Her book is The Empathetic Workplace: 5 Steps to a Compassionate, Calm, and Confident Response to Trauma on the Job.