This is challenging on any regular day in our VUCA (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex and Ambiguous) world, however, this need is amplified, if not obligated, in the face of the unknown.

Below are some tips around cultivating calm:

• Acknowledge the emotions that are being felt: Our brains have had plenty of practice in having a strong response to external threats. This is not a bad thing; however, the bigger challenge is learning how to manage self.
  
  Firstly, acknowledge that a range of responses is normal. For some, it’s normal to feel overwhelmed or anxious in times of ambiguity; we’re used to creating a sense of control in our lives and when this feels less manageable, we can feel unsettled. Noticing these emotions is the first step in calming ourselves.
• Engage in habits that are calming and centering: Deep breathing slows down our nervous system and allows greater oxygen flow to the frontal lobe of our brain where decisions are made, immediately slowing down our flight or fight response.
  
  Booking a meeting with yourself to slow down and spend some time checking-in, sense-making and reflecting on what the current challenges mean for you; may also assist in cultivating internal steadiness.

Discover additional tips on enhancing wellbeing

Further resources to explore:

• READ What science says leaders should do: frequently asked questions and answers to help leaders find their focus from the NeuroLeadership Institute
• READ Holding Space: the high art of leadership
• WATCH The Centre for Creative Leadership talks through seven stages of leading in a crisis (Assessing, Sense-Making, Triaging, Strategising, Executing, Recalibrating and Pivoting) with a particular focus on the importance of reflection

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