Reef Reads - Crisis doesn't build character- it reveals it

Jeffrey Redmon | May 19 2025 18:00

Crisis doesn’t build character—it reveals it.

In Conquering Crisis , Admiral William McRaven shares 10 hard-earned lessons for leading through crisis and chaos:

  1. Be calm in chaos – Composure keeps your team steady when everything else is shaking.
  2. Take the fight to the enemy – Don't wait—act boldly and with intention. 

Crisis doesn’t build character—it reveals it.

In Conquering Crisis , Admiral William McRaven shares 10 hard-earned lessons for leading through crisis and chaos:

  1. Be calm in chaos – Composure keeps your team steady when everything else is shaking.
  2. Take the fight to the enemy – Don't wait—act boldly and with intention.  
  3. Be a leader, not a bystander – Step up, even when it’s uncomfortable.
  4. Be prepared for the long haul – Crisis isn't a sprint; it's an endurance test.
  5. Respond with courage, not fear – Fear is contagious—but so is bravery.
  6. Communicate, communicate, communicate – Clear, constant updates build trust and momentum.
  7. Share the pain – Shoulder the burden alongside your people.
  8. Have a sense of humor – Even in darkness, levity can be a lifeline.
  9. Stay humble and listen – No one has all the answers. Listen deeply.
  10. No plan survives first contact—adapt! – Flexibility is your greatest strength under fire.

These aren’t just battlefield principles—they’re guideposts for every boardroom, family table, and personal storm. 

#CrisisLeadership #McRavenLessons #LeadThroughAdversity #GritAndGrace