This is the most essential leadership skill of the 21st century.
𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐞.
The further you go in leadership, the more important it becomes to master soft skills rather than technical skills.
Composure is a paradigm-shifting skill.
It's a state of being calm and in control of oneself, maintaining steadiness, especially in complex and challenging situations.
It's about acting with thoughtfulness - instead of reacting.
Leaders who act with composure know that:
✅ Inner calm gives the advantage of a sharper mind, a broader perspective and better decision-making.
✅ Their most important asset is their internal state, their inner power - and they do not give others permission to diminish it.
✅ Sometimes, it's okay to lose battles to win the war.
To practice composure starts with a moment of awareness. When you feel yourself spiralling, ask yourself.
Where am I?
You are either above or below the line at any point.
Above the line means conscious leadership with openness, curiosity and a commitment to learning.
Below the line means closed, defensive and committed to being right.
In today's complex world, it’s common to find ourselves and others below the line.
Awareness of where you are in moments of stress gives you the ability to shift from reacting to acting intentionally.
The more chaotic your environment becomes, the more you need to practice composure.
Thanks to Jim Dethmer for introducing me to this simple yet powerful model.
If you would like to become more intentional about your leadership style and develop personal strategies to thrive in complexity and enhance your impact, let's talk ⤵️
It’s free and can provide immediate insights and actionable next steps, regardless of your decision to work with me as your coach.
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