How Resilient Leaders Manage Anxiety

I've just spent the past several years studying the dynamics of resilience as it relates to business—why some people and organizations emerge from adversity even stronger—while others simply crumble under the pressure. In my last column, I touched on the three ways companies often perform when times get tough. When they hit a downdraft like the 2008 recession, some react like glass Christmas ornaments—they shatter on impact. Others emerge from a recession badly bruised, like oranges. Resilient companies bounce back like rubber balls—and are often stronger than before.

What determines a company's bounce—its resilience in times of adversity? Last month I pointed out that a leader's attitude going into adversity is crucial. Effective leaders "embrace the bounce"—they understand that difficult times present an opportunity for a company to focus its vision and learn about itself and its customers.