Recession-Proof: Building Resilience in Uncertain Times

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 14, 2025

There’s a word that’s echoed through boardrooms, leadership seminars, and morning team huddles lately: resilience. But let’s go deeper than the buzzword. Real resilience—the kind that carries a business through turbulent markets—isn’t about simply surviving. It’s about strategic adaptation.

In uncertain times, our instinct might be to freeze, conserve, or wait it out. But thriving through a downturn demands more than caution—it calls for clarity, grit, and a grounded mindset. Here’s what that looks like for leaders and business owners alike.

Resilience Is More Than Survival—It's Strategic Adaptation

Think of resilience not as a shield, but as a springboard. It’s not just about withstanding impact, it’s about bouncing forward. Strategic adaptation means recognizing what’s changing in the market, your clients, and your team—and choosing intentional actions to meet the moment. It's flexibility with a purpose, not reaction based in fear.

The Mindset of Resilience: Why Grit and Clarity Matter More Than Ever

Resilient leaders lead with grit—the sustained passion and perseverance for long-term goals—and with clarity about who they are and what they stand for. These two traits become the compass in a storm. Grit helps you keep going when results are slow or obstacles stack up. Clarity helps you cut through the noise, make smart decisions, and avoid shiny distractions that don’t serve your mission.

This mindset isn’t innate—it’s developed. It’s a discipline of reframing setbacks as signals, not stop signs.

Characteristics of Resilient Leaders

Resilient leaders aren’t the loudest in the room or the ones who pretend everything’s fine. They’re the ones who lead with:

Calmness: They regulate their emotions and create psychological safety for others.
Adaptability: They shift strategy when needed without losing sight of the goal.
Decisiveness: They act with purpose, even in ambiguity.
Transparency: They communicate with honesty and foster trust through openness.

These qualities don’t just show up in a crisis—they’re built in the everyday habits of leadership.

Managing Fear and Uncertainty (In Yourself and Your Team)

We all feel fear during a downturn. But what we do with it matters more. As a leader, you set the emotional tone for your team. That doesn’t mean hiding your concerns—it means acknowledging reality while anchoring in hope and action.

Start by checking in with yourself. What are you afraid of? Where is that fear valid, and where might it be exaggerated? Then lead by example—encourage open conversations, set realistic goals, and celebrate small wins to rebuild momentum.

The Power of Vision and Values in Economic Downturns

When things feel unstable, vision and values become your foundation. They remind you (and your team) why your business exists, who you serve, and what really matters. These aren’t just words on a wall—they’re decision-making tools.

A clear vision cuts through panic. Strong values drive consistent behavior. Together, they help you lead with integrity when it’s easiest to compromise. And that builds loyalty—from your team, your clients, and your community.

Call to Action: Reconnect with What Matters Most

Take a moment today to reflect:

What are your core business values?
How are they showing up in the way you lead right now?
What’s one decision you could make this week that reflects those values—even if it’s hard?

Resilience isn’t built overnight. But with intention, transparency, and courage, it becomes part of your culture.

And in uncertain times, that’s not just a strength. It’s your strategic edge.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/. Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags: #Jenny Holly Hansen #Recession Proof #Resilience #Uncertain Times #Grit #Strategic Adaptation