Being a firefighter has taught me how to stay calm in the heat of the moment. This skill has been invaluable in the boardroom and during high-stakes negotiations. Here’s how you can apply these lessons to your leadership:

Firstly, stay composed. When situations seem overwhelming, remember that panicking won’t help. Those frantic moments can cloud your judgement. Instead, take a breath, assess the situation, and stay steady.

Secondly, make quick, informed decisions. As a firefighter, you don’t have the luxury of time to second-guess every move. The same goes for leading a team during a crisis. Trust your training and intuition to make the best choice possible with the information at hand.

Thirdly, cultivate a team mentality. In firefighting, we rely on each other’s strengths to get through tough situations. The same applies in business. Create an environment where your team feels confident and supported, knowing they can lean on one another to succeed.

Train regularly with your whole team. Consistent practice ensures everyone knows their role and can step in when needed. This builds trust and cohesion, which are crucial during real challenges.

Remember, respond—don’t react. When a problem arises, take a moment to process it before jumping to action. Reacting impulsively can lead to mistakes, but a considered response will guide you to a better outcome.

By applying these principles, you’ll not only lead more effectively in crises but also inspire confidence and resilience in your team.