As leaders, we set the tone. The attitude and presence we bring, especially when facing challenges, ripple through our teams. We have the chance to steer our teams toward success—or, if we’re not careful, to create additional obstacles they must navigate.
A calm, steady leader is like an anchor, keeping the team on course when the waters get rough. Staying calm isn’t just about keeping your cool. It’s about leading by example. It’s showing your team, through focus and intentional action, that together, you can overcome any challenge.
A looming deadline, a last-minute project, or any pressing issue can stir up anxiety and stress, neither of which helps the team perform at its best. Instead of adding to the tension, a leader can defuse it by maintaining composure and helping the team focus on the task ahead.
Keep Your Wits About You
When leaders stay calm, thoughtful, and deliberate, they create the space for others to do the same. This doesn’t mean pretending everything is easy; it means showing that obstacles can be tackled one step at a time. A calm leader inspires confidence and keeps the team grounded, which is crucial when navigating through complexity.
On the flip side, rushing or showing signs of stress only slows the team down and fills the air with negativity. Whether you’re working on a routine project or a high-stakes initiative, this principle holds true: the team will reflect the energy you bring.
Keep Calm and Carry On… or File On
A timely example for the Funds For Learning team is the Cybersecurity Pilot Program. There’s a lot riding on this for schools and libraries. The forms, the deadlines—the pressure to get it right is palpable. But the key to success lies in maintaining calm and working through the process, one step at a time.
A familiar Funds For Learning mantra comes to mind: “Keep Calm and File On.” With the right mindset, even the most challenging tasks can be managed smoothly. Calmness breeds clarity, and clarity brings results.
