Change is inevitable, but how we lead through it? That defines everything. Leadership isn’t about controlling the chaos. It's about having the courage to stand in it. When things fall apart or the path ahead feels uncertain, the ability to reset isn’t just helpful, it’s essential.

A reset isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment or chasing a flawless solution. It’s about the willingness to begin again, to pivot when necessary, and to challenge the assumptions that might be holding you back. Resetting isn’t failure, it’s growth. It means you’re paying attention. It means you’re leading with intention.

Leadership isn’t a straight line. It’s a series of course corrections. Don’t fear the reset button. Trust it.

Here are three simple ways to practice resetting in leadership and in life.

The “Blank Slate” Reset

Why it matters: When we get stuck, it’s often because we’re holding on to old ways of thinking. This exercise helps you let go and approach challenges with fresh eyes.

Try this:

• Think of a challenge or a recurring issue in your work or life.

• On a blank sheet of paper, write down everything you think you know about it—your assumptions, frustrations, strategies you’ve tried. Then, set it aside.

• Now, start fresh. Ask yourself: If I could start over, what’s one new thing I’d try?

• Write down a new approach and commit to testing it this week.

The Micro-Reset

Why it matters: Small moments of resetting help build resilience, keeping you centred and adaptable throughout the day.

Try this:

• Three times a day, pause for five minutes. Close your eyes, take a few deep breaths, and ask yourself: What’s cluttering my mind right now?

• Release the stress, the noise, the distractions.

• Set one clear intention for the next part of your day.

These micro-resets keep you grounded, helping you move through change with clarity instead of overwhelm.

The Setback Reset

Why it matters: Our greatest growth often comes from the moments that shake us. This exercise helps you reframe setbacks as stepping stones.

Try this:

• Think of a recent setback. Write down how it made you feel and the first thoughts you had about it.

• Now, reframe it: What lessons did this experience offer me? How did it shape me as a leader?

• Share this reframe with someone—whether a colleague, a mentor, or a team member. Show them how you used the setback to reset and move forward.

The truth is, resetting isn’t about erasing what’s happened. It’s about choosing how you respond. It’s about rewriting the story you tell yourself so you can lead with more clarity, courage, and resilience. It’s about knowing when it’s time to begin again.