Adversity does not build character, it reveals it. – James Lane Allen

We’re living in stormy, unpredictable, and anxious times right now. As we in south Louisiana recover from a visit from Hurricane Francine, buh-lieve me, the irony is not lost on me.

This hurricane was predicted to be a Category 1 hurricane, meaning winds up to 90 miles per hour and expected to be a fast-moving storm. Well, as experienced hurricane warriors, we should’ve known to expect the unexpected. Francine strengthened to a Cat 2 just before landfall, took an unexpected jog to the east, and apparently, she loved my little town of Thibodaux seaux much, she just decided to hang around for a while – like positioning her eye wall over us for over four-ish hours. #funtimes

Whether you’re in the “Cone of Uncertainty” due to a hurricane or just the current climate throughout the world, it’s fair to say that the environment is volatile. Shitake happens.

While being an effective leader is never easy, I think we’d agree that serving as a leader during prosperous times is a whole lot more fun than leading during tough times. Being a true leader is all about being able to rise to the occasion during those challenging times.

Keep in mind that in uncertain times, you’re not the only one who’s stressed. Your team members likely have a tremendous amount of anxiety and as those negative emotions run high, they may vent their frustrations at a co-worker or colleague. As the stress continues, often fatigue and hopelessness set in.

Sorry to be such a “Betty Buzzkill” – or “Captain Obvious.” If you’re on the struggle bus, here are a few tips for dealing with the aforementioned adversity – and/or for anytime you want to be a better leader or just a decent human being.

1. Be predictable in unpredictable times. You may not be able to control the events swirling around you, but people need to know that you’re at least in control of yourself.
2. Be kind and compassionate. Obviously. Everyone has isht that they’re dealing with and fighting battles that we know nothing about. Use empathy and put yourself in her shoes.
3. Show interest and concern. Spot a stressed out teammate?Ask how his family is doing, what challenges he’s facing, and what specific help he needs. Everyone wants to feel that they have some agency and control.
4. Communicate early and often. Now is not the time to hunker down in your office/bunker. Share information, be accessible, and listen to the concerns of your team members.
5. Be as transparent as possible. If you don’t know the answer to a question, admit that you don’t know. When you have less than positive news/developments to share, do so directly and with respect for how it will impact members of your team.
6. Get scrappy. This is the time to search for more innovative solutions. Get your team involved, get them talking and brainstorming, and tap into their creativity. This is a great way to get and keep them engaged, too.
7. Lighten up. Go see a funny movie or watch a sitcom, or the election debates. Oh wait, scratch that last one unless you are a sucker for punishment. Make sure that you take time for yourself to have fun, relax, and recharge your batteries.
8. Exercise. To burn off stress – and all those beignets you ate because you were stressed. The endorphins will do you a world of good. Encourage your team members to do the same. Why not have a walking meeting?
9. Get enough sleep. Easier said than done, I know. But hopefully, all that exercise will make you tired, so you’ll sleep like a baby. Nobody wants to deal with a cranky, sleep-deprived leader during tough times.
10. Spend time with family and friends– but not if they’re the ones causing you stress! Make it a point to be around people who lift you up and make you feel good about yourself. Rather than join the “ain’t it awful club,” surround yourself with positive people who are prone to taking action rather than sitting around whining about the situation.
11. Practice gratitude. Make a commitment to thank or recognize someone (or three or five someones) each day before your head hits the pillow. Research indicates that gratitude is a powerful antidote to feeling “meh.” So do it.

Remember that as a leader, you’re being watched! You are the role model, the example that others will follow. If you’re determined and focused on the positive, it’s likely your team will follow your lead.

I know that there are times that you’d like to just go hide in your closet and drink one-too-many, but sadly, my friend, that would likely only make matters worse. Hopefully, these tips will help you to see these tough times as an opportunity to become a stronger, more effective leader.

I’d love to hear from you! What actions would you add to this list? How do you keep your team engaged during tough times?