What Smart Leaders Are Doing Differently Right Now: Insights from Corporate Workshops

Last month, I had the honor of leading four corporate talks and workshops. I conducted two in-person sessions and two virtual ones for innovative companies in fintech, wealth management, adtech, and Google. Each team was unique, but the challenges remained consistent. Times are tough.

Themes from the Workshops

The workshops were titled:

• Push Pause: Managing Stress in High-Pressure Jobs

• Five Keys to Pause and Reset in Challenging Times

• Three Keys to Finding Your Inner Calm

• Resilience Lab: Tools to Build Resilience as a Team

  
  

From seed-stage startups to global organizations, one aspect stands out: leaders and teams are under massive pressure. They are actively searching for effective tools to help them rise above the challenges.

1. The Pressure is Real — Everywhere

Whether you manage a team of two or 200,000, the current climate is uncertain. Stress levels are high, resources are limited, and many employees are struggling quietly. Uncertainty is no longer a passing phase; it has become the default setting for our operations.

2. Resilience Isn’t Optional — It's a Critical Need

Teams consistently ask: How do we keep going when our usual strategies fail? These discussions highlighted that resilience — and I mean true, embodied resilience — is essential. It is not just a trendy buzzword but a necessary practice. This is what my workshops strive to deliver: tangible resilience.

3. A Need for Connection — Now More Than Ever

Across all sessions, participants engaged deeply. Whether through one-on-one shares, breakout discussions, or group reflections, the desire to feel seen and supported is more robust than ever. Teams crave psychological safety, trust, and genuine connection. This starts by providing them with the space to express themselves.

The Importance of Fostering Psychological Safety

Psychological safety is a foundational element for teams. When people feel safe, they are more likely to contribute ideas, share concerns, and communicate openly. This safety leads to innovation and collaboration. Fostering an environment where every voice is heard can make a significant difference.

A Reminder of Our Shared Humanity

The workshops were not just impactful for the participants—they served as a reminder for me, too. Whether I am traveling cross-country or managing a stubborn frozen shoulder, I realize that resilience is multi-dimensional. It encompasses physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects. Just like our leadership, resilience is constantly evolving.

Investing in Your People

If you are an HR leader or team lead in the midst of constant change, now is the opportune moment to invest in your people. Workshops can be tailored to be either virtual or in-person. They can also fit within your budget based on what we create together. The right workshop or talk could serve as a much-needed reset for your team, helping them feel equipped, connected, and clear—even in these unpredictable times.

Take Action

If you’re interested in enhancing your team's experience, let’s discuss bringing this type of immersive workshop to them. Reply "workshop" to see if this option suits your needs, or click here to connect.

In the face of uncertainty, investing in resilience and connection is more crucial than ever. Your team's well-being is tied closely to your organization's success. Embrace these changes—it’s the smart leadership approach for today and beyond.