Uncertainty: The lack of sureness about something or a situation because of unknown factors and the lack of adequate information.

We live in uncertain times. Winds that have so often filled our sails and provided direction and momentum have become eerily quiet. The predictable waves of prosperity that once propelled us forward have seemingly disappeared. Stillness fills the air.

Skills used to lead others through times of prosperity must be replaced with new skills that address these new challenges which include, but are not limited to, the concerns, anxiety, and frustrations of those we lead. Do these reactions qualify them as "bad" employees? Of course not. Such responses are normal. However, as a leader, you must set the example and lead positively and authentically during these times.

So what should you do?
I believe the answer can be discovered in the actions of a seasoned sailboat skipper who suddenly encounters still water and a windless sea. One of the greatest challenges for any skipper and crew!

1. Move toward the center of the "boat." This action reduces the amount of drag by raising up the stern. Providing up-to-date and regular information helps create a sense of "centered" unity. It encourages a team perspective that we are all in this together, allowing greater forward motion and fewer obstacles.

2. Minimize unnecessary movements on the boat. These movements steal momentum from your boat. Minimize or eliminate processes and activities that create confusion and unnecessary work. Streamline practices so that less energy is required to achieve immediate goals.

3. Check and maintain navigational equipment. Faulty equipment leads to disaster, especially when the winds and waves suddenly return. Check and maintain the infrastructure of your organizational "boat."

4. Stay attentive. Inattentiveness to the situation may cause an incorrect response when the weather suddenly changes. Create and maintain a simple operating strategy that will enable a quick response when the economic and environmental winds change.

5. Know that the doldrums will end. The winds and waves will return. Leaders must encourage their followers that this time is but a moment in God's overall plan. Be patient. He will send favorable winds once again.

"After three days and nights, the winds ceased, and the sea became like curdled mass, so great was the calm when the holy father said: 'Take in your oars, and cast loose the sails, for the Lord will guide our boat whithersoever He willeth.' In this manner was the boat kept in motion for the space of about twenty days, until at length God sent a favorable wind…"

Nauigatio sancti Brendani abbatis - The Voyage of St. Brendan (6th Century)

Reprinted by Permission from Leadership Moments, Volume 1, Issue 2, 2009. Dr. Peter Pintus is the Director of the Global Organizational & Leadership Development Department at Focus on the Family