Calm
What is it?
Calm leadership is a leadership style in which the leader maintains a sense of composure and stability, even in the midst of challenging or high-pressure situations. A calm leader is able to remain level-headed, clear-minded, and focused, even when dealing with difficult decisions or complex issues.
Calm leaders are often skilled at managing their emotions, maintaining a positive attitude, and communicating clearly and effectively with others, and this is harder said than done when pressure for results rises, and/or we feel pressure from others, usually senior leaders to us. We can also become “triggered” by staff who perform or operate in ways that are not what we want to see.
Effective leaders tend to be steady, even-tempered, and composed. Leaders with high scores on Volatile may encounter difficulties building trust and confidence among the people with whom they work because they behave unpredictably.These individuals may be more vulnerable to the pressures of external events and internal reactions, leading to sudden displays of emotion.
In our world of increased disruption and complexity, with mental anxiety at record levels, as humans and business leaders we might find it more difficult than ever to be calm, and the benefits of helping your organization be calmer could lead to many culture and performance benefits.
Research supports this:
Calm leaders inspire confidence: A study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that calm leaders are perceived as more effective and trustworthy by their followers. The study also found that calm leaders are more likely to be viewed as transformational leaders who inspire their followers to achieve their full potential
Calm leaders are more effective in managing stress: Research published in the Academy of Management Perspectives found that calm leaders are better equipped to manage stress and uncertainty. The study found that calm leaders are able to maintain a clear focus on the goals and objectives of their organization, even in the face of significant challenges
Calm leaders are more resilient: A study published in the Journal of Business Ethics found that calm leaders are more resilient and better able to bounce back from setbacks and failures. The study found that calm leaders are better able to maintain a positive attitude and a sense of optimism, which helps them to persevere through difficult times
Calm leaders are better at decision-making: Research published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology found that calm individuals are better at decision-making, especially in high-pressure situations. The study found that calm individuals are better able to consider all available information, weigh the pros and cons, and make rational decisions, even under stress
How might you develop it?
Here are some recommendations for books to read for guidance on how to develop your calmness as a leader:
"The Art of Possibility" by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander - This book provides insights on how to transform difficult situations into opportunities for growth and development, and how to stay calm and composed in the face of adversity
"Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek - In this book, Sinek explores the importance of building trust and creating a sense of safety in organizations, and how leaders can cultivate a sense of calmness and stability by putting the needs of their team first
"Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves - This book provides practical tips and strategies for developing emotional intelligence, which is essential for effective leadership and maintaining a sense of calmness and composure under pressure
"Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges" by Amy Cuddy - In this book, Cuddy explores how body language and nonverbal communication can help leaders project confidence and stay calm in high-pressure situations
"The Mindful Leader: Ten Principles for Bringing Out the Best in Ourselves and Others" by Michael Carroll - This book provides guidance on how to cultivate mindfulness and develop a calm, centered presence that can help leaders manage stress and stay focused on what matters most
All of these books offer valuable insights and practical advice for developing the skills and mindset necessary to be a calm and effective leader.
As a coach I explore what triggers us, and how to manage our response to these inputs, so we can better notice and self - regulate. Light Journalling in between sessions can aid us in conversation about what happened, how we managed in the moment and afterwards, how we might have displayed our emotions and how we progress as a calmer leader who is able to be effective in higher stress situations.