That's a hard concept to accept, but it is such a vital attribute of a leader especially during a crisis like the one we are currently experiencing. I still believe that taking your time and being smart about being decisive is key. Any arrogant person can be decisive at hard times like today, but only a true leader can be decisive and be effective at the same time.

All five of these elements are certainly critical at all times, but even more so during an economic downturn or other people-impacting crisis. I agree with Alex and think that not only is it important to take your time and make intelligent decisions, but it's also critical to act authentically. It's difficult to be authentic with your leadership style and remain true to the goals and needs of the organization when financial pressures are mounting; it's easy to make a mistake that may endanger jobs, employee well-being, or livelihoods while under duress. During an economic crisis like this one, we're asked to make decisions quicker than usual and sometimes may sacrifice a well-thought, authentic solution for one that fits right now.