Most leaders thrive during smooth times—when progress is steady, obstacles are few, and teams are happy, collaborative, and achieving their goals. In these moments, it can feel as though everything is aligned and success is inevitable.
But when a crisis strikes, that sense of stability can quickly unravel. Whether it’s an economic downturn, the loss of a major client, the departure of a key employee, or a personal health issue, these events can significantly disrupt operations and morale. They can derail not just your week, but your entire outlook.
How leaders respond in these moments makes all the difference. One common reaction is to panic and become reactive. However, panic and stress hinder creativity and resilience. Instead, taking a moment to decompress—perhaps with a short walk or calming music—can help shift your mindset from defensive to strategic and innovative.
Another typical response is withdrawal. Some leaders retreat into routine tasks like emails and reports, avoiding the emotional and strategic demands of the crisis. While this may offer short-term comfort, it leaves the team feeling unsupported and uncertain. A more effective approach is open communication. Involving your team in problem-solving not only generates better solutions but also reinforces a sense of unity and shared purpose.
In more extreme cases, some leaders choose to give up entirely—resigning or closing their business. During the 2008 recession, many companies took this route. While sometimes necessary, more often there are hidden opportunities for growth. Resilient leaders acknowledge the difficulty but choose to view the situation through an opportunity lens, finding ways to adapt and emerge stronger.
So, what new response will you choose the next time a crisis arises? Solutions are out there—waiting for a leader willing to use them!
