In the middle of economic turbulence, market volatility, and headline after headline about layoffs and global shifts, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. We’re leading in uncertain times, and it can be scary. But as business owners and leaders, we can choose how we respond—and that choice makes all the difference.
On this episode of The C-Suite Mentor, I want to share a message in response to the uncertainty many of us are feeling. While we can’t control the economy, we can control our mindset, our perspective, and how we are leading in uncertain times.
When the World Feels Unsteady, Create a Safe Space
I understand the heaviness that so many are feeling. With layoffs making headlines, tariffs impacting international business, and markets fluctuating daily, it’s no wonder business owners and their teams are feeling anxious.
Rather than lean into that fear, we have to create safe spaces—spaces where people can ask questions, be heard, and talk openly about what they’re experiencing. Fear thrives in isolation, but when we connect, collaborate, and communicate, we shift the energy.
Why? Because this is not a time to argue. It’s a time to come together. To listen. To lead.
Reframing the Idea of a Pivot
In a recent mastermind session, someone asked me how I’m pivoting my businesses in response to economic challenges. My answer? I’m not pivoting my business strategies—I’m pivoting my thinking.
By staying “above the line” (focused on solutions and positivity), rather than “below the line” (stuck in fear or negativity), I can stay grounded in what I can do instead of being paralyzed by what I can’t control. That shift helps me make better decisions for my businesses—especially when leading in uncertain times.
From Panic to Problem-Solving: Lead Like Water
Instead of seeing challenges as walls that block us, we can become like water—flowing around obstacles, adapting, finding new ways forward. This mindset helped me launch a successful retail business during the 2008 recession and continues to guide my decisions today.
We don’t have to abandon what we’re doing—we just may need to do it differently. Whether it’s sourcing from overseas or managing rising costs, there’s always a path forward if we stay solution-focused.
Obstacles are real, but so are solutions. If you zoom out, you can see the next right step.
Lead with Empathy, Not Just Strategy
Above all, be both transparent and empathetic. Our employees, partners, and clients are also feeling the weight of uncertainty. The more we can communicate honestly and lead with heart—even if we’re leading in uncertain times—the more resilient our organizations will be.
Now isn’t the time to pull back or operate from fear. It’s the time to step forward, listen deeply, and lead with courage and care.
Resources Mentioned
💻 Join me every Friday at 10 am on LinkedIn for my free workshop
☕️ Schedule a Virtual Coffee with Theresa
📝 Uncover Your Biggest Blindspots with the Entrepreneur Quiz
Related Episodes
Embracing the Messy Middle: Why Change Feels So Hard (and How to Push Through It)
Playing the Long Game: 4 Ways to Be a Future-Focused Leader and Create Business Growth
Know Thyself: How to Own Your Identity to Be a Better Leader
