Keep Calm and Kawhi On

Canada is a hockey-crazed nation. It is our identity, our pride, our passion. However, this month, another sport has risen to overshadow even the Stanley Cup finals. Yes, the hardwood eclipsed the ice rink as the Raptors made their unprecedented run to the NBA championships—resulting in a stunning victory!

The team’s success captured the imagination of the nation coast to coast, with viewing parties held in venues across the country. One defining image of this wild ride was the dramatic, second-last game winner in game seven versus Philadelphia—a corner three-pointer that bounced four times as time elapsed to send the team to the next round. It was a pivotal shot, one of those “where were you when” moments that will be replayed for decades. And it was a shot that finally brought some emotion to the face of the shooter, the team’s stoic leader Kawhi Leonard.

The fact that the term “leader” can now truly be associated with Leonard is telling. I ran across an article that argued for exactly that. Leaders are typically understood as the vocal, “rah rah” individual, people who motivate others into action with inspirational words, who stand up and give impassioned speeches. Leonard’s unique brand of leadership can be easy to overlook. He is the quiet calm that his teammates look to when events seem to be out of control. He isn’t a leader who complains or looks for excuses when things don’t go his way, or is wildly exuberant when they do. This is not just being a quiet, introverted leader: it’s being a leader whose composed demeanor inspires confidence.

And this is arguably a big reason why the Raptors have shed their reputation of being underachievers and have achieved such great success. As columnist Zito Madu argues: “For so long, the Raptors have been known for collapsing under pressure. That identity was so ingrained that regardless of their regular-season success, few truly believed in their ability to succeed in the playoffs. Thanks to Leonard, that distinction no longer applies.”

I remember an instance a few years ago when we were faced with a series of unfortunate situations at work. The details escape me now, but I do remember the reactions of those present—primarily mine and a coworker’s. I immediately felt the burden of it, the dread, the anger, and the feeling of futility. Every possible negative result came immediately to mind.

My coworker, on the other hand, had no visible adverse reaction. He was calm and confident. His words and actions spoke volumes: “It’s going to be okay. We can get through this. No need to panic or worry too much. Let’s focus on the solution rather than the problem.”

The impact on others and me were noticeable. Stress levels decreased and productive problem solving ensued. Instead of being overwhelmed by the issues, we could focus on solutions. My coworker led well and the office thrived as a result.

When things are going awry in your workplace, how you react matters. Channel your inner Kawhi Leonard: be the one who doesn’t overreact or panic. Remember that this situation, with some perspective, is likely not as dire as it seems.

Enjoy the moment. Focus on solutions rather than problems. And maybe you can guide your workplace to the equivalent of a four-bounce winning corner three-pointer in the process.