We find ourselves in uncertain times. Then again, one could argue we always do—it’s just that sometimes we perceive things to be more stable than they are. Stability is often an illusion; change and disruption are constant.
In moments of uncertainty, our natural wiring kicks in: fight, flight, or freeze. In business, “freeze” seems to be the most common reaction. Leaders hesitate, delay decisions, and hope the fog will clear on its own. Unfortunately, freezing rarely serves us well, it often means missed opportunities and being caught flat-footed when circumstances shift.
I’ve long believed the best approach is courage. Courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the ability to act despite fear. It’s about staying engaged, making decisions, and moving forward with intention, even when you can’t see the full picture.
Years ago, I took some basic martial arts training. The core lesson wasn’t about how to punch or kick—it was about staying calm, balanced, and ready to respond appropriately to a threat. I saw this play out unexpectedly on the soccer field one day when an opposing player decided to attack me. Instead of panicking, I kept my balance, parried his punches, and when he tried to kick me, I caught his leg and subdued him. He got a red card. I kept playing.
That moment cemented the power of composure and preparation. The same principles apply in business:
- Balance: Have a clear, consistent way to operate your company. Strong processes, clear roles, and reliable systems give you stability—your “fighting stance.” When you know how your organization runs day-to-day, you’re better equipped to adapt when things change.
- Awareness: Stay alert to what’s happening around you. Look for early signs of change or risk. Awareness lets you prepare without being blindsided.
- Action: Don’t let risk assessment turn into paralysis. Keep moving—serve customers, invest in your people, and work on the business. Adjust as you go, but don’t stand still.
Uncertainty will never disappear. The leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who wait for perfect clarity, they’re the ones who keep their footing, keep their head up, and respond with confidence when challenges appear.
With balance, awareness, and a willingness to act, you can reduce stress, avoid the freeze, and focus your energy where it belongs—on building a stronger business, no matter the circumstances.
