Rebecca Fitzsimmons of Tactical Harmony On Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Uncertain & Turbulent Times
Be humble. This requires leaders to detach from their ego and lead with heart. The most emotionally intelligent leaders know how to self regulate and manage relationships with others effectively. Request and receive feedback and adapt to new strategies when necessary. This will enable the leader to guide their teams through absolutely anything while upleveling.
As part of our series about the “Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader During Turbulent Times”, we had the pleasure of interviewing Rebecca Fitzsimmons.
Rebecca Fitzsimmons is a holistic leadership and mindset coach, podcaster, keynote speaker and author. She helps driven professionals and leaders awaken their inner leader, defy the ordinary and excel in both their careers and beyond. Following about 20 years of global experience — from her time as an Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Special Agent leading teams in high-risk, fast-paced environments, to serving as a senior leader in tech — Rebecca launched her business, Tactical Harmony, to help high performers redefine success on their own terms so they can achieve extraordinary breakthroughs. Additional information can be found on her website at www.tacticalharmony.com.
Thank you so much for your time! I know that you are a very busy person. Our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’ and how you got started?
Of course! My career path has been unconventional in that I’ve been blessed to work across several disciplines and sectors. After receiving my Bachelor of Science degree in Forensic and Investigative Science, I kicked off my professional career as a Special Agent in the federal government for 14 and ½ years (mostly with the Naval Criminal Investigative Service.) It was in these years I worked in both criminal investigations and national security roles in the United States and overseas in Europe. After my tour with NCIS, I made the leap to the private sector working in a senior leadership role for a tech company.
It was through my diverse, global experiences that I witnessed how holistic leadership and mindset strategies answered every challenge. No matter the job, position or country, it was an undeniable truth and a key code to success. That’s exactly why I launched my business, Tactical Harmony — so I can share these game-changing tactics with high performers to help them defy the ordinary and step into greater power both in their professional and personal lives. Serving others and helping them realize their untapped potential energizes me, and I am so grateful to be able to coach others so they can bend their time and enjoy unparalleled freedom and abundance.
It has been said that our mistakes can be our greatest teachers. Can you share a story about the funniest mistake you made when you were first starting? Can you tell us what lesson you learned from that?
I share with my clients all the time: “failing forward” is a part of success. It is through taking action that we are able to receive feedback and then can pivot accordingly. This growth mindset is non-negotiable. I view my mistakes as some of my best teachers, as I am able to see all the lessons and blessings along the way. So let’s see…one story that comes to mind was when I was launching my business. I was a classic “solopreneur” doing everything on my own, trying to figure it all out. Instead of focusing on marketing and advertising my business so I could serve others, I spent months (yes, months) building and designing my website. This may sound silly, but it cost me so much time because of my perfectionist nature. Yes, I am a recovering perfectionist and have to keep myself accountable at all times.
I learned that done is better than perfect. Progress over perfection. In fact, perfection does not exist and it is truly unattainable. And we can be busy but not making any progress at all. So with these realizations in mind, I shifted strategies and leaned in fully to ruthless prioritization. I now focus on my input and output more closely. About 20% of our actual efforts yield 80% of the results. So I turn up the volume on those 20% of things that allow me to move the proverbial ball down the field. Not only have I saved a TON of time, but I am getting amazing results. I take this approach with everything I do for my business.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? Can you share a story?
There are so many powerful leaders I’ve learned from along the way and SO many I am grateful for in the federal government, corporate world and in entrepreneurship. I’ve been so very blessed in this regard. Usually my answer to the question of “who was your greatest teacher?” would be dogs. Yes, dogs — you read that correctly — as they are truly the best teachers of holistic leadership I’ve experienced. So much so that I authored a book, “Unleashed: Holistic Leadership Insights from Our Canine Companions” to this end. I combine proven tactics with the profound wisdom of dogs, which shows us how to master leadership from the inside out. Everything from discipline, grit, influence, curiosity, mental fitness, mindfulness and gratitude. All key components of a successful leader.
But to answer specifically about a person — I’d have to say it was a horrible manager (note I am using the word manager and not leader) who showed me what not to do. This manager was cruel, vindictive and used fear as a weapon which of course, led to absolute disaster to all of the direct reports in the chain of command.
I am grateful for this individual, because it not only allowed me to really strengthen my own leadership skills, but also presented the opportunity to create new skills and abilities. By flexing new muscles, I was able to have a greater impact as I navigated unchartered territory both in the traditional sense of the word leadership (i.e. leading others) and through self leadership. My emotional intelligence (self awareness and regulation) grew exponentially as well as my social awareness and relationship management. I truly stepped into greater levels of leadership and paved the way for others. We must be so aware and open that our greatest teachers can truly come in any form: dogs or humans.
Extensive research suggests that “purpose-driven businesses” are more successful in many areas. When your organization started, what was its vision, what was its purpose?
I always say if we truly are living and embodying our “what” and “why” — then we are aligned with our values and soul’s purpose. It’s our north star. And business is a reflection of who we are…so if we are not aligned with our purpose, then our business will very much reflect that.
Understanding the importance of this, I created a manifesto when I launched my business, Tactical Harmony.
Tactical: Plan, Align, Execute, Receive
Harmony: Balance, Wholeness, Peace, Freedom
It is through taking continuous, inspired action (being tactical) that we are able to achieve harmony in our professional and personal lives. It really is a symphony or dance between the two and you certainly don’t have to choose one over the other. I was very thoughtful and intentional when naming my business AND showcasing its essence and heart to the world.
My vision was to impact the ambitious, go-getters out there to really come home to themselves and move with soul aligned ambition. It’s a remembrance of self. One of the greatest tragedies I see is elite professionals staying in careers when they are unhappy or unfulfilled. You can be great at a job, but also very much miserable. But when we are aligned with our truth and values, we are abundant and life becomes one of ease and flow rather than constantly efforting or struggling. And that’s where I come in to help as a leader and coach. I’ve helped so many amazing professionals realize their truth — whether it’s getting their dreamy promotion, taking the bold move to launch a business or switching careers or roles entirely…the same mindset strategies apply.
Thank you for all that. Let’s now turn to the main focus of our discussion. Can you share with our readers a story from your own experience about how you lead your team during uncertain or difficult times?
This is one of my favorite topics as I’ve led so many teams in NCIS through absolute crisis (literally life and death missions and operations) to your every day change management situation where things were uncertain in tech and in my own business. Over the years I’ve distilled my tactics down to core principles that will 100% help the entire team (leaders and individual contributors) effectively manage difficult times.
For the sake of time, I’ll share just a few: First and foremost, trust + respect. If you don’t have the trust of your team (boss, peers or direct reports) you have nothing. Relationships are key and if this foundation of trust and respect is not there, it will be evident the very first time a curveball is thrown your way. Once you have trust and respect, then you are able to influence and inspire others (which is the essence of leadership.)
Number two — grit and resilience. These are two very important muscles to flex. The ability to adapt to changing circumstances, staying humble and continuously being laser focused on the mission at hand. Recovering from any perceived setback is critical to staying in the game and stepping into your next level of power.
Number three — mindset. Having a victory mindset — one of discipline, integrity, taking continuous, inspired action and grace. This is the formula to help you at any level get from where you are to where you want to be during the best of times and during the worst of times. True leadership starts from within and it’s all about mastering your mindset. And once you do — you are truly unstoppable.
Did you ever consider giving up? Where did you get the motivation to continue through your challenges? What sustains your drive?
Never entered my realm of possibility. Sure, there were times I was very hard on myself (we are our own worst critics, right?) or times where I lacked clarity — BUT — when I leaned into holistic leadership and mindset strategies — I had everything I needed to weather the storm. My motivation really stems from being so radically aware of my thoughts and the lens in which I am looking through. I can view life as if it’s happening for my greater good or I can view it from a victim mentality. Because I understand that we cannot create from a place of lack or scarcity, I choose to lead my life from an abundant mindset. This also means I take extreme ownership of everything going on in my inner and outer world. If I don’t like something, I change it. Challenges help me build my character and strengthen or create new skills. Being so very mindful and grateful for all the lessons and blessings helps me maintain this forward-thinking mentality.
I’m an author and I believe that books have the power to change lives. Do you have a book in your life that impacted you and inspired you to be an effective leader? Can you share a story?
Oh, yes — as a new author myself, I realize the power of a good book. For me, it was “The Game Of Life and How To Pay It” by Florence Scovell Shinn. This book was a huge game-changer for me and my approach to life and business. It was likely the quote, “ The game of life is a game of boomerangs. Our thoughts, deeds and words return to us sooner or later with astounding accuracy,” that utterly rocked my world. Thoughts truly become things and everything…and I mean everything.. starts from within. Internal work drives external results. When we take ownership of our minds and our thoughts and the narrative we tell ourselves, the game of life, as we know it, changes. This helped mold my leadership style and holistic approach.
What would you say is the most critical role of a leader during challenging times?
The ability to make decisions. Leaders need to lead. This means we take in the information at hand, assess, and make a decision. Commit and act. This requires the leader to trust and empower the team to execute the mission and get the job done. The team needs to feel the ownership which is absolutely critical.
If you need to adjust fire and adapt, you can certainly do so, but existing in a state of analysis paralysis is not only confusing, but it can incite fear. Instead of overanalyzing, let’s shoot our shot and recalibrate down the road. This is why having solid relationships is so important — ones built on a foundation of trust and respect. Everything will be pressure tested during tough times (but always remember — diamonds are built under pressure.)
When the future seems so uncertain, what is the best way to boost morale? What can a leader do to inspire, motivate and engage their team?
Transparency and authenticity. My teams know I lead with heart: and this means always telling the truth and providing context, wherever possible. I do this because I care and because I want to foster an environment in which the team has psychological safety. Being transparent will also prevent people from creating a narrative in their heads that is way worse than what you’re facing — which can then spread like wildfire creating unnecessary tension and negative emotions. In uncertain times, people will seek control. It’s our brain’s job to keep us in the known or familiar so this is a very normal reaction. This is why being transparent is so crucial.
Being authentic and leading with honesty and integrity is a key pillar of a successful leader. I am not BS’ing my team or adding fluff when not needed. I am honest with myself and honest with them.
I have also found success in anchoring my team back to our “why” and mission. Tough times allow us to strengthen our grit and resilience and the opportunity to build character (individually and organizationally.) Getting comfortable with the uncomfortable is vital as it is precisely when we stretch outside of our comfort zone that we grow and evolve.
And last, but certainly not least — active listening. Being engaged, holding the space to hear your teams’ thoughts and concerns and actually giving a damn is essential during these uncertain times. People need to feel heard and it’s the leader’s job to set the tone and lead by example.
What is the best way to communicate difficult news to one’s team and customers?
Radical candor: Teams and clients really do respect the direct “straight, no chaser” approach. I communicate directly and with sincerity. Delivering the news in an emotionally intelligent way is also key (i.e. I am not angry or sad — I am calm and collected.) Having this level of poise will ensure I am clear and addressing all the relevant points of the news.
Addressing follow up questions you know your team will ask is also something to have at the ready. As a leader, you should know your teams well enough to be able to forecast how they may react and immediate questions they will have. Address them immediately and ensure you create the opportunity to follow up with your team individually if needed. During difficult times, people may not always remember what you say — but they will remember how you made them feel. Lead with heart and you’ll never go astray.
How can a leader make plans when the future is so unpredictable?
As I indicated earlier, leaders need to lead. So when things may be a bit uncertain, we can’t sit still and do nothing. We must take inspired action and keep moving forward, amidst the chaos. Scenario planning is always a good thing to do, as the body doesn’t go where the mind hasn’t been. Train your mind, train your team and work through different scenarios together which will also shine a light on gaps that need to be addressed in the plan. By doing this you are organically building confidence and agility in your team which is inherently motivating. Win-win.
Is there a “number one principle” that can help guide a company through the ups and downs of turbulent times?
We are the CEOs of our careers and lives. This level of personal power cannot be overstated. By aggressively managing our energy, which is our life force, we are then able to direct where we are focusing our thoughts and time. If we are focusing on the bad, that’s all we will see and we’ll get more of that. If we focus on the good and what’s working, we’ll get more of that. I truly believe business and life is an extension of how we are showing up in the world. It’s like a big mirror reflecting back to you. By shifting our mindset, we truly change our entire experience with life. This level of energy management is absolutely critical for a company enduring a turbulent time.
Leaning into having a growth mindset and knowing these are character building experiences, will always serve you, your team and the company’s highest good.
Can you share 3 or 4 of the most common mistakes you have seen other businesses make during difficult times? What should one keep in mind to avoid that?
One mistake out the gate would be doing nothing. Sitting with fear and letting it control the business instead of using it as fuel to motivate the team to make different moves. Different moves = different results. Fear will only paralyze you if you let it. The definition of courage is feeling fear and doing the thing anyways. Having problems is a sign of life. Its almost like life’s call to action: “Hey, you — time to get better, stronger, leaner and faster.”
Another common mistake I’ve seen over the years is subscribing to some sort of limiting belief that keeps the team playing small…especially during tough, uncertain times. Nothing is good or bad but thinking makes it so. If we all subscribe to panic, worry or fear, then our actions will correlate with this low frequency state of mind. If we flip the script, and exist in a state of power and confidence, then we can consciously create from this liberating, abundant state of mind. Internal work drives external words. This level of self mastery is key.
And one other thing I’ve seen is allowing mistakes to completely derail you. Mistakes are inevitable and a part of success as we chatted about earlier. We must train ourselves to search for the lesson or blessing, humbly accept this feedback, pick ourselves up and keep moving. It’s that simple and it’s that hard. But in time, you’ll build these muscles and it will become easier. You’ll recover more quickly from perceived setbacks and will achieve extraordinary success. I’ve seen this time and time again.
So to avoid the above…it starts with you. Master your mind, master your life. Success is 80% mindset and 20% strategy or mechanics. This will require discipline — which I define as the ultimate expression of self love. This is not a one and done process — it requires consistency and for you to show up each and every day for yourself and the team.
This is leadership very few will see, but it is a key code to excellence in your particular craft. And by holistically leading your life, this will allow you to nurture and tend to all parts of you: mind, body and spirit. By doing this, you own your life and will thrive, not just survive. This self mastery will enable you to trust your instincts and be a powerful, holistic leader for your team. No stone is left unturned.
Here is the primary question of our discussion. Based on your experience and success, what are the five most important things a business leader should do to lead effectively during uncertain and turbulent times? Please share a story or an example for each.
- Be humble. This requires leaders to detach from their ego and lead with heart. The most emotionally intelligent leaders know how to self regulate and manage relationships with others effectively. Request and receive feedback and adapt to new strategies when necessary. This will enable the leader to guide their teams through absolutely anything while upleveling.
- Empowerment. Your team should feel a radical sense of ownership of what’s going on and the plan of what to do next. Having a foundation of trust and respect is a pre-requisite here…because it will allow you to influence and inspire others.
- Investment. When all else fails, you can never go wrong by investing in the best assets you have: people. This is truly the best investment one can make and one that will continuously serve you and the business.
- Take continuous, inspired action and focus on your sphere of control. Keep moving, keep iterating, but never stand still or quit. Be anchored in the present moment and what you can do today. Progress really stems from the micro-actions we take every single day. It is only through taking action that you are able to see what’s working and what’s not. We can’t control the outcome, but we can control what we are doing day to day. Make moves in alignment with your values and mission, and always anchor back to your “why.”
- Robust, effective communication. Communicate early, often, and meaningfully. You can talk a lot but not really say anything. So hitting relevant points, and being very clear and direct in the messaging will help add clarity in volatile, ambiguous times. Clarity is like a superpower, because fuzzy targets don’t get hit.
Can you please give us your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Can you share how that was relevant to you in your life?
The same boiling water that softens the potato, hardens the egg. It’s what you’re made of. Not the circumstances. Self-leadership always comes first. As a leader and coach, I continuously highlight this point to my clients: If you can’t lead yourself, you can’t lead others. This is why I opened myself up as a leadership coach so I could train others on holistic leadership and mindset strategies on a global scale. It truly is the answer to every challenge, professionally and personally. So the within, so the without.
How can our readers further follow your work?
You can reach me and all my leadership coaching services at my website, www.tacticalharmony.com.
All the information to grab a copy of my new book, “Unleashed: Holistic Leadership Insights from Our Canine Companions,” will be on my website, as well: https://tacticalharmony.com/book
Subscribe to my mailing list here: https://tacticalharmony.com/vip-list (I share weekly “Tactical Notes” which are bite-sized messages personally designed by me to keep you laser focused and dialed in during the week.)
Tactical Harmony Podcast is on Apple and Spotify.
Other ways to connect: LinkedIn or Instagram.
I look forward to engaging with you all further!
Thank you so much for sharing these important insights. We wish you continued success and good health!
Rebecca Fitzsimmons of Tactical Harmony On Five Things You Need To Be A Highly Effective Leader… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.