Image credit: IgorFaun
It’s easy to believe culture is about the good times—celebrations, values posters, and high-fives.
But here’s the truth:
Your culture isn’t revealed when things are easy. It’s revealed when things are hard.
When layoffs happen.
When big change rolls in.
When people are scared, emotional, and uncertain.
That’s when your real values show up.
As someone who comes from improv comedy, I’ve learned that in high-pressure moments, your subconscious takes the wheel.
You don’t have time to think your way into your values—you act from what’s embedded.
That’s why I believe so strongly in mindset over mechanics.
You can have all the right systems, but if your mindset isn’t grounded in empathy, clarity, and ownership? No checklist will save you when it matters most.
So ask yourself:
How do we treat people when they leave?
Do we lead with empathy under pressure?
Do we notice and navigate emotion, or do we ignore it?
Because the way you show up in the hard moments says more about your leadership—and your brand—than any onboarding plan ever could.
Change doesn’t just test your systems.
It reveals your soul.
I spoke with Toni Thomas on my podcast about exactly this—how organizations can turn layoffs into leadership moments. It’s a must-listen for anyone navigating change.
Check out the Toni Thomas interview here!
If you have thoughts about this concept, please share them with me, and let me know if there is anything I can help you with!