Posted on October 30th, 2025

“Uncertainty doesn’t define great leaders — it reveals them.” John C. Maxwell
We’re now three weeks into the government shutdown, and the weight of uncertainty is being felt across workplaces everywhere. Even if your organization isn’t directly affected, chances are someone on your team is feeling the ripple effects — a partner, family member or friend out of work, delayed projects, tightened budgets, or just a general sense of “what’s going to happen next?”
In moments like this, leadership takes on a deeper meaning. It’s not just about managing through disruption; it’s about steadying hearts, calming fears, and staying grounded enough to offer others hope. And it all begins with one essential truth: You cannot give what you do not have.

Take care of yourself, too

I remember the last time there was a government shutdown. I was working in the corporate world then, spending time in conversations with leaders about their own thoughts, frustrations, and fears. Many were doing everything they could to stay strong for their teams — while quietly running on empty themselves.
This season isn’t just hard on your team; it’s hard on you, too. You’re carrying the weight of others’ worries while managing your own. To lead well, you must care for the leader within.
Here are some insights that emerged from those conversations — simple, practical ways leaders at every level found to stay centered and strong during uncertain times:

• Set healthy boundaries. You’re allowed to rest. Protecting your time and energy ensures you have something left to give when your team needs you most. Boundaries aren’t barriers — they’re what keep you grounded and able to lead with clarity.
• Take quiet moments. Five minutes of deep breathing, reflection, or prayer can help you reset. These pauses create space for perspective, allowing your emotions to settle and your decision-making to stay centered rather than reactive.
• Find your circle. Talk with other leaders or a trusted friend. Sharing the weight of leadership helps you process challenges, gain insight, and remember you’re not alone. Supportive conversations can restore hope and balance.
• Feed your spirit. Read something that inspires you, or listen to uplifting music or podcasts. What you take in shapes how you show up — filling your mind and heart with encouragement keeps your outlook positive and your energy renewed.
• Prioritize rest. Fatigue magnifies stress. Rest restores perspective. A rested mind is more creative, compassionate, and calm — three things your team needs most from you right now.

Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s strategic leadership. When you’re well, your team feels it.

Keep growing your leadership muscles

Tough times refine us. They stretch us, strengthen us, and teach us who we are as leaders.

The most powerful leadership skills right now are:

• Empathy: People first, always.
• Communication: Clear, consistent, human.
• Adaptability: Pivot without panic.
• Resilience: Stay steady through the storm.
• Encouragement: Speak life into your team.

Leadership in uncertain times isn’t about pretending things are fine. It’s about being real — and still showing up with heart.
When you lead with both grace and grit, you give others permission to do the same.

Keep learning, keep leading

If you’re looking for ways to stay encouraged and sharpen your leadership mindset, try weaving short learning moments into your week. A podcast episode during your commute or a quick leadership article over coffee can help refuel your perspective.
Here are a few favorites worth checking out:

• The Maxwell Leadership Podcast – timeless principles for leading yourself and others.
• Craig Groeschel Leadership Podcast – practical wisdom for developing healthy, high-performing teams.
• The John O’Leary Live Inspired Podcast – uplifting conversations about resilience and purpose.

You might also enjoy revisiting classic articles like:

• “Leading in Times of Uncertainty” (Harvard Business Review)
• “The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership” (Forbes)

The steadier you are on the inside, the stronger your team feels on the outside. Taking care of yourself isn’t stepping away from leadership — it’s stepping into it with intention.

Next up in Part Two

In the next article, we’ll shift focus to your team — how to lead with empathy, communicate with clarity, and stay connected with employees (including those furloughed) during times of uncertainty.

Next in the Series: Steady Leadership — Helping Your Team Find Their Footing When the Ground Shifts