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Leading Through Chaos: Embrace the Climb to Clarity

Writer's picture: Austin J. CrawfordAustin J. Crawford

Updated: Feb 2

Chaos Is Inevitable—Rise Above It.

Chaos touches us daily, often feeling overwhelming and inescapable. Yet, for leaders committed to doing right and being great, chaos isn’t a roadblock—it’s a catalyst. The best leaders don’t run from the noise; they rise above it with clarity, focus, and resilience.

Here’s how you can turn the sometimes messy, unpredictable nature of leadership into the moves that drive progress.

Want the View? Do the Climb.

Clarity doesn’t happen by accident—it’s developed. In the weeds of chaos, don’t freeze; instead, keep/start climbing. One foot in front of the other. Each decision, no matter how small, gets you closer to that clarity. Chaos is like fog on a trail. Progress doesn’t clear it all at once. It’s only with each step forward, the path becomes clearer.

Your first step? Simplify. Instead of tackling everything, focus on one or two key priorities. As the one of my favorite saying goes, “F*ck your mood. Follow the plan.” (Maybe a new DRBG t-shirt slogan?) Feelings come and go, but sticking to your directives creates consistency, even in uncertain times.

Lead With Mindset, Grit, and Integrity

Leadership in chaos demands discipline. Your team looks to you for stability, and that starts with your mindset. Choose to see challenges as opportunities for growth. When setbacks happen, lean in a bit, and push through—let your integrity guide the hike.

Ask yourself: What do I want to be known for when the dust settles? When your choices align with doing the right thing, you create a ripple effect that empowers your team into focus and stabilizes their footing.

Simplify the Noise: Deliver +1

In chaotic times, perfection isn’t the goal—excellence in progress is. The “Deliver +1” mindset helps you succeed by focusing on stacking up small wins. Whether it’s one extra solution, clarity in message, or a strong decision, delivering just ‘one more’ builds trust and momentum within your team. Leaders who simplify the noise and focus on tangible progress stand out.

Embrace the Process

Chaos becomes paralyzing when we expect instant answers. The solution? Embrace the process. Trust that each deliberate step leads you closer to clarity. Remember, “Want the View? Do the Climb.” The summit isn’t reached in one leap but through persistence, reflection, and action. Each step; one in front of the other provides this.

DRBG Takeaway

Leadership is messy, and chaos will challenge you—but it’s also where growth happens. I like to say that “If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.” Embrace the discomfort with a mindset of progress, fuel it with grit, and filter every decision through integrity. Chaos doesn’t have to derail you—it can shape you into the kind of leader who not only survives but thrives.

Clarity isn’t handed to you; it’s earned through action and purpose. Simplify the noise, focus on the climb, and stay true to your mission.

Make today count. Go get the view. Today, you climb.


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