Some leaders fall apart under pressure. The best ones rise above it.
They get paid to navigate complexity, pressure, conflict, and uncertainty, and those environments reward one skill more than any other.
It’s what I call emotional mastery. Which is the ability to stay composed while everyone else gets rattled.
However, here is the paradox. Leaders typically feel what others feel, but they cannot react like others react. Think of it like this:
When the team is anxious, the leader must be composed.
When the team is down, the leader must supply energy
When the team is discouraged, the leader must instill hope.
When the team is emotional, the leader must be rational.
Not because the leader is fake, but because they have emotional mastery. If you remember nothing else from this newsletter, remember this:
Leaders do not get the luxury of emotional convenience. They get the responsibility of emotional discipline.
So when the pressure rises, what emotion does your team typically get from you?
Use Your Gifts,
John Eades, CEO of LearnLoft | The Sales Infrastructure
Poll Question
I have a year-end surprise coming, and let’s just say it has a little Optimistic Outlook energy behind it. I will be giving away a meaningful leadership gift before Christmas. Anyone who answers this poll is entered to win!
What emotion do people MOST often get from you under pressure?
The Optimistic Outlook (Newsletter)
The Optimistic Outlook is a daily newsletter designed to remind you to focus on the bright side, one day at a time. Join 1200+ leaders who are already improving their Optimistic Outlook.
The Optimistic Outlook is now available wherever you listen to podcasts. Channel your inner John Eades and make your kids listen to it, then read it aloud to work on their minds and communication skills.
Warren Buffett’s Final Lesson on Life and Leadership (Podcast)
Warren Buffett's final annual letter ended with a message about character, growth, and kindness. It was a reminder that success is measured by how you live and how you treat people. In this episode, I break down the four lessons from his closing words and why they matter for your leadership and your life.
Are You Interested or Committed (Video)
Most people are interested in becoming great leaders. But very few are committed.
Interest is easy - it’s convenient, comfortable, and conditional.
Commitment is hard - it shows up when it’s inconvenient, uncomfortable, and costly.
The difference between the two determines your influence. When you’re committed, people can feel it. They trust you more, follow you farther, and perform better.
Ask yourself today:
Are you interested in leading, or are you committed to it?
Here Are Some Ways We Could Partner:
The Proven Approach to Help Employees Develop Leadership Skills: Bring the Accelerate Leadership Program or Catalyst for Growth Program in-house for a customized experience for your team members. Programs include virtual or in-person instructor-led training, a Leadership Growth Plan, and group coaching to ensure real-world mastery.
The Personalized Mindset and Skill Shift: Work 1-on-1 with me or one of our certified coaches to achieve your goals, strengthen critical skills, and address your most pressing challenges. This 6-month program focuses on mindset and execution for tangible, lasting outcomes. Show me more
The Engaged and Inspired Audience: There are two available dates left in 2025, and we are now booking into 2026. John’s new keynote, “The Teamwork Advantage,” has been a hit for organizations. Hit reply on this note, or check out some of our recent talks here.
