Steady Leadership
In
Uncertain
Times
Dear Spark Family,
We’ve all had those moments—times when everything around us feels chaotic, and we’re still expected to lead, stay calm, and show up for our teams. A leader I spoke with recently was right there, facing a massive organizational shift, and the weight of it all hit him hard. In that conversation, you could hear the doubt in his voice as he asked, “Jackie, how do I lead when I’m feeling so unsure myself?”
I felt that deeply because I’ve been there too. Those times when your mind is spinning, and you’re not sure if you have what it takes to lead through the storm. It happens to all of us, even the best leaders. There’s this misconception that being a leader means having it all together all the time. But let me tell you, that’s just not true. Leadership isn’t about always having the answers—it’s about knowing how to stay steady when everything feels uncertain.
How to Stay Grounded When
Leadership Feels Like Chaos
This leader reminded me of a time recently when I was about to step on stage to deliver a keynote, and everything in me was screaming, “You can’t do this.”
I was dealing with a lot of heavy family stuff that day, and I felt unfocused and an overwhelming sense of anxiety. My heart was racing, my mind was scattered, and my head was pounding. And most of all, I couldn’t wrap my head around the fact that in just a matter of minutes I would have to walk onto a big stage to share an inspiring 60-minute message to a ballroom filled with hundreds of accomplished CEOs.
And I’ve learned over the years that those moments are the real test.
But here’s what got me through: a few simple tools I’ve relied on over the years. I started with box breathing to calm my nerves, then shifted my focus to gratitude, and reminded myself of the bigger picture—why I was there in the first place. The result? That keynote went better than I could’ve imagined.
The truth is, you don’t need to have all the answers to lead. You just need to stay grounded so you can show up for your team with confidence, even when you’re feeling unsure.
Practical Tips to Lead
Through Change
When your team is looking to you for guidance—especially when you’re navigating your own internal challenges—it’s not about being perfect. It’s about staying steady and showing up as your best self. Here are a few practical tips to help you do that:
Use Grounding Techniques: Whether it’s deep breathing, a quick walk, or a few moments of reflection, find something that helps you reset in the moment. Your team feels your energy, so regulating it is key.
Be Transparent (Without Overloading): Share what’s appropriate. Your team doesn’t need every detail, but they will appreciate you being honest. Let them see that you’re human—it builds trust.
Lean on Your Support System: You don’t need to do it alone. Find your support network—whether it’s a mentor, a friend, or someone on your team. Lean on them when things feel heavy.
Showing up for your team, even when things are tough, shows them they can do the same. And that kind of leadership? It’s powerful.
🌟 Final Thoughts:
I know you’ve had moments like this too, when leadership feels heavy, and you’re wondering how you’ll make it through. What tools or strategies do you use to stay grounded? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Stay grounded,
Jackie
P.S – Got a leadership story or a meme that made you laugh? I’d love to hear it — send me a DM on Instagram!
