Composure: The state of being calm and in control of oneself.

Why It Matters

No doubt, composure is an admirable quality. When observing the world’s most exceptional leaders and successful professionals across varying industries, there appears one common denominator: composure. Good leaders remain composed in the face of adversity, dissent, instability, and uncertainty.

For all leaders, composure is crucial. And if you are not in a professional position that leads others, leading yourself with composure is equally as critical.

Composure involves remaining in control of your behavior during complicated and significant situations and not allowing your emotions to command your actions. Emotions are a key component in managing relationships, but they should not be driving your actions. Emotions should turn on your engine, prompting action, but keeping calm allows the brain to drive when passion keeps the car moving.

When we act with composure, we also reassure those around us, instilling confidence and building trust. This makes it easier for others to stay calm and keep on track toward a common goal, better relationships, and overall success.

Build Your Toolkit

· Decrease Triggers

· Pause — Practice Impulse Control

· Delay Emotions — Positive and Negative

· Relinquish Control of Others to Obtain Control of Self

· Don’t Take Things Personally

· Trust

· Be Positive — There are Many Sides, Look at the Bright One

· Make Decisions

· Stay Accountable for Your Decisions and Actions

· Step Back — Think Long Term

Take Small Steps

Adapting a composed demeanor doesn’t happen overnight. Like many things, it gets better with practice. Set goals for yourself and track progress daily. Taking time to meditate in the morning, and reflect in the afternoon. In your journal, ask yourself: (1) What challenges arose today that I handled respectfully, with composure, and dignity? And (2), what challenge arose today that I didn’t handle exceptionally well? What will I do to handle it with more equilibrium next time?

Try this method five days a week for three months and track progress. You will likely see your colleagues turning to you for more advice, feel more composed, and ultimately be a better leader.

I’m curious to know how it goes. Let me know in the comment section below or reach out to me directly!