How leaders survive constant crisis

Uncertainty is now permanent

Shocks once came as phases. Businesses adjusted and things reverted to normal. Now crises arrive one after another, making uncertainty an operating condition that takes a toll on organizations and their leaders.

Why leaders face more pressure

Management layers that once absorbed pressure have been thinned out.Leaders face higher velocity of incoming information and greater media scrutiny.

Build an organizational sensory system

Create processes to respond faster to urgent challenges.Amazon built an integrated network of tools and practices to monitor its environment, capture signals of change, and convert them into actionable insights.

Distinguish real crises from false alarms

In a survey of 152 IMD executive program participants, 64% said at least half their urgency comes from internal pressure to appear responsive, not real external deadlines.

Share the burden with your team

Individual senior leaders cannot handle pressure alone.Talk about uncertainty and fear as a team.Create an external network of advisers and consider bringing in a coach to confide in.

“Leaders too often try to absorb the anxiety, to project steadiness, to hold it all. That's becoming less and less tenable as the pace of change and the magnitude of decisions increases.”

Develop personal resilience

Leaders cannot eliminate pressure but can develop resilience. A clear sense of purpose and values anchors you in turbulent times. Maintain physical and mental strength through exercise, sleep, and meditation. Things will not settle down.

“Things aren't going to settle down. You have to arm your organization, and yourself, to deal with continuous disruption.”