Leading Through Uncertainty: A Call to Courageous Leadership

The world is changing rapidly, and the pace of change can feel overwhelming. I haven’t seen a climate like this in the United States since 2008 and even then, I question whether things were as challenging as they are now. Today, we’re facing a convergence of geopolitical upheaval, crumbling systems and the rise of Artificial Intelligence, which is redefining the entire job landscape. 

The uncertainty is perceptible and I see it every day in my work with clients. If you work with people in any capacity, you are likely seeing it too. The emotional weight people are carrying right now is real.

I feel honored to support so many incredible leaders in my coaching practice during this time and I want to send a clear message to all the good people out there in leadership roles:

Don’t give up. We need you.

Now, more than ever, it’s critical that thoughtful, values-driven people stay in positions of influence. Keep showing up. Keep having honest conversations. Keep leading with integrity. Don’t let fear or manipulation change what you know in your heart and your gut to be right.

There are several key themes I’ve seen emerge lately, common struggles that I want to address to support those of you who may be questioning whether your work matters in a system that feels broken. 

Survivor’s Guilt

A frequent theme this year has been the deep sense of survivor’s guilt many feel after layoffs. If you’ve kept your job while colleagues were let go, that weight is real.

It’s important to have compassion for your coworkers who were impacted, help them land new roles (if you can and you want to) and to give yourself space to process your own emotions. It’s equally important to look forward. You’re still at your company for a reason. Use that as fuel to lead in a way that makes a difference. 

Ask Yourself: How can I lead in a way that helps build a better future for this company and the people in it? If you have the chance to help prevent future layoffs, take it. Those who were let go didn’t have that option. Use your position to do the most good you can.

If you’re in a position to do so, consider giving back. Donate money, volunteer your time or simply share whatever resources you have to help others. Every little positive thing we do makes a difference so instead of wallowing in guilt, use your abilities and capacity to help others.

Overwhelm and Burnout

Financial and personnel cuts have left many employees carrying workloads meant for two or more people which has resulted in overwhelm and burnout. 

The first step when this happens is to acknowledge how you're feeling. Take a moment to notice the stress in your body and the emotions you may be suppressing. Once you’ve acknowledged them, start making adjustments where you can. Delegate, prioritize and say no.

Most importantly, have compassion for yourself. You can’t be everything to everyone. No one can sustain that pace. Be honest with yourself and your team about what’s possible. Focus on what can be done instead of everything that should be done. Long-term stress is not just a productivity killer, it's a health risk.

Reconnect with your “Why”

What I’ve learned from coaching leaders is that impact isn’t just about what you do, it's also about how you do it.

I’ve seen inspiring leaders across industries drive meaningful change, not just for their companies, but for their teams and their communities. I’ve also seen so-called socially responsible companies doing damage not only to their employees but also the customers they claim to serve.

The difference comes down to this: Are you leading with intention? With empathy? With integrity? Are you listening to your employees and to your customers? Are you doing what you know is right?

Whether your purpose in working is providing for your family, supporting your team, or building something meaningful, hold onto that “why” right now. Revisit it often. In the hardest moments, your “why” will help you stay grounded and continue on when things get tough.

Celebrate the Small Wins

Change doesn’t happen overnight. Progress can be slow and, at times, it can feel like we are going backward. Despite that, every act of kindness, every moment of courage, every ethical decision matters. This is especially true if you’re in a leadership position because your choices carry influence.

I once worked at a large multinational corporation where a VP went above and beyond to support an employee whose child had cancer. This was before remote work was widely accepted, yet the VP provided flexibility, remote work options, understanding, and consistent support to this employee. Watching that act of kindness and support from a senior executive had a huge impact on me and my career because it showed me what real leadership looks like when you truly care about your employees.

Never underestimate the influence you have, even in small, quiet ways. Those moments shape culture. They create belonging. They change lives.

If you are a leader who’s struggling right now, please know this: you are not alone. 

A lot of people, including in corporate America, are navigating uncertainty, stress and doubt right now. The path forward may not be easy, but we will get through it. The choices we make today will shape the future we build tomorrow.

Keep going. Keep showing up.

We need you.