Composure is Power

From Chaos to Calm: 10 Situations That Throw Entrepreneurs Off Balance and How to Regain Composure

As we navigate the complexities of modern business, it's easy to get caught up in the need to be heard and seen as the most dominant presence in the room. We often equate power with being the loudest, most assertive person in the conversation. But what if I told you that the most powerful person in the room is actually the one who maintains composure and self-assurance?

True power lies not in the ability to dominate a conversation or exert control over others, but in the capacity to maintain a calm and centered presence, even in the face of challenges and adversity. A composed demeanour not only commands respect, but also helps to build trust and foster positive relationships with others.

So, what exactly does it mean to be composed? At its core, composure is the ability to remain calm and collected, even in high-pressure situations. It's a quality that enables us to stay focused on our goals, make sound decisions, and maintain a sense of perspective and balance.

This will surprise you, composure is your natural state of being. Although it may seem normal to be disconnected, stressed, flustered, and out of control, it is not a natural way of being. These feelings often stem from external factors and can trigger the body's fight or flight response, leading to a constant state of heightened stress and anxiety. This is not good for your overall health and wellbeing. By recognizing that composure is your natural state and learning how to tap into it, you can reduce your stress level, regain control of your emotions, and ultimately unlock more of your potential. So, it's important to prioritize composure in your daily life, both for your physical and mental health.

In practical terms, this might look like taking a deep breath and centering yourself before entering a high-stakes meeting, or staying poised and level-headed when confronted with a difficult challenge or conflict. It might also mean being willing to listen to others and consider their perspectives, rather than insisting on your own way.

By cultivating personal strength and resilience you can maintain a state of composure. Rather than getting caught up in the stress and chaos of the moment, you can step back and assess the situation with a clear and focused mind. This not only makes you a more effective leader and team member, but also enables you to better manage your own emotions and respond to others with empathy and understanding.

Of course, cultivating this quality over time takes practice and dedication. But the benefits of doing so are well worth the effort. By learning to be the most composed person in the room, you can unlock a new level of personal power and effectiveness that will serve you well in all aspects of your life. A good starting point for developing composure is to be prepared and willing to confront challenges directly.

It’s not what happens but how you respond to it that matters. Challenges are what make life interesting, overcoming them is what makes it meaningful.

10 Common Triggers that Derail Entrepreneurial Composure and Their Solutions

1. Financial stress: Financial issues can cause significant stress for entrepreneurs, especially if you’re struggling to make ends meet or to keep your business afloat.

To alleviate financial stress, work to create a budget and stick to it, seek out alternative funding sources, negotiate payment terms with suppliers and vendors, and explore cost-cutting measures and income opportunities.

2. Customer complaints: Negative feedback from customers or clients can be very disheartening and can affect your confidence and composure.

To address negative feedback from customers, listen to and acknowledge the concerns of your customers, apologize if necessary, and work to find solutions to the problem. It is also important to ensure that customer service is a top priority and to seek out feedback from customers regularly to identify and address issues before they escalate.

3. Unforeseen setbacks: Unexpected setbacks like losing a key client, a major project falling through, or a supplier backing out can cause agitation and stress.

To mitigate the impact of unexpected setbacks, have contingency plans in place and be prepared to pivot your strategy when necessary. It is also important to maintain strong relationships with suppliers, clients, and partners to minimize the risk of sudden changes or disruptions.

4. Employee issues: Problems with employees, such as a key employee quitting or being fired, or dealing with difficult staff members, can cause stress and disruption.

To manage employee issues, have clear policies and procedures in place, establish a positive company culture, and communicate openly and transparently with your staff. It is also important to invest in employee training and development to ensure that staff members are equipped with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.

5. Technical difficulties: Technical problems such as computer crashes, website outages, or data loss can be frustrating and disruptive to your composure.

To address technical problems, have IT support in place, invest in reliable technology, and back up data regularly to prevent loss. It is also important to have a plan in place for responding to technical issues quickly and effectively.

6. Legal issues: Legal problems such as disputes with partners, lawsuits, or regulatory issues can be very stressful and can disrupt your sense of calm and balance.

To manage legal issues, work with trusted legal professionals and establish clear contracts and agreements with partners, vendors, and clients. It is also important to stay informed about relevant regulations and compliance requirements and to take steps to minimize legal risk.

7. Personal issues: Personal problems like family or relationship issues, health problems, or other personal challenges can make it difficult for you to stay focused and composed.

To address personal challenges, prioritize self-care and seek support from trusted friends, family members or a good coach. It is also important to maintain a healthy work-life balance and to take time off when necessary to address personal issues.

8. Competition: Competition from other businesses or new entrants into the market can cause stress and anxiety if you are not prepared and present.

To address competition, stay informed about market trends and consumer behaviour, invest in marketing and branding efforts to differentiate yourself from competitors, and focus on building strong relationships with your customers.

9. Changing market conditions: Fluctuations in the market, changes in consumer behaviour, or shifts in industry trends can be challenging for leaders that are distracted and unprepared.

To respond to changing market conditions, stay informed about industry trends and consumer behaviour, maintain a strong online presence and marketing strategy, and be prepared to pivot your business strategy when necessary.

10. Overwork: Overworking or taking on too much can lead to burnout and can disrupt your composure, leading to decreased productivity and effectiveness. It’s important to take preventative measures, once you reach burnout it can take a long time to recover.

As an executive, leading a team and driving a business forward can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be incredibly challenging. In the face of unexpected setbacks, financial stress, and intense competition, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and lose your sense of composure. That's where a Transformative Executive Coach comes in.