"Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the face".
Mike Tyson doesn't work as a manager in a tech company, but he knows how easily we can forget our principles or "deeply held" values when adversity punches us in the face. There just needs to be enough pressure for this to happen. We get overwhelmed with all the problems we need to solve and we become reactive.
Principles are a life-vest when all else seems uncertain—trust me, I really understood "Don't shoot the messenger" earlier this month.
When losing control, managers could make good use of 15 minutes of their day to read and ponder on the following 3 Stoic quotes—to regain perspective and agency.
1. "Waste no more time arguing what a good person should be. Be one." — Marcus Aurelius
Managers lead by example through inspiring others.
Being respectful. Showing courage and humility. Acknowledging when we were wrong. Taking one for the team. Considering the bigger picture.
When we just seek faults in others, we ignore our own responsibility.
2. "The willing are led by fate, the reluctant dragged." — Seneca
My first boss told me the battle is lost if you need to motivate people—or that beatings will continue until morale improves!
As managers, our success is tied to our team's success. And it's really hard to rebuild momentum if the mood is low—after two reorgs, I would know... Somehow, we need to keep going and delivering.
And it's just so much more pleasant for everyone when "the stars align"—supporting the team should always be our #1 priority.
3. "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." — Seneca
Always be biased towards taking action.
Even when things aren't so certain, there's always something in our power to better prepare for eventualities. There might be untapped opportunities—we just need to keep an open-mind to be able to see them. Luck does not just happen, we should actively seek it.
Make new connections, join new conversations, offer your help.
Managers are the original influencers
The most powerful tools to steer our teams through both calm and turbulent times: our mindset and emotional resilience.
Embrace the wisdom of the Stoics as your mentors—let their timeless guidance help you inspire, lead, and magnify your impact every day.