How many times have you said of an executive at work, "Well that's what he or she gets paid to do." Typically, we're referring to someone who takes the heavy load or "hit" for the organization. Typically, that someone is the president or CEO. We expect the people in these roles to perform despite the pressures because, again, that's what they're paid to do.

While most of us must deal with some level of pressure in our jobs, managers, leaders and CEOs experience even more pressure, and how they handle it is often scrutinized.

In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share some key steps leaders can take to manage this pressure from executive coach Lolly Daskal, a leadership coach who's worked with thought leaders around the world.

Manage the anxiety. Most people lose themselves in the stress of the situation, but great leaders draw from their interpersonal skills and know that to lose control can spell disaster for their careers and the company. They understand that courage is grace under pressure, so as leaders, they learn to be bold and manage their anxiety.

Maintain an optimistic attitude. Great leaders recognize that all kinds of risks and uncertainty can threaten their organization's survival, and they know that becoming negative and critical is never going to make a stressful situation better. Instead, they learn how to remain positive and stay optimistic.

Find order in chaos. Great leaders know that how they handle the pressure is a measure of how successful they will be; therefore, it's all about finding clarity and coherence in times of chaos. With clarity and order, they can find solutions that will make a difference, not only for their company, but for their people.

Look for those who can assist. Great leaders know they cannot do everything alone; they need others to help, support and with whom they can collaborate. In times of stress, great leaders look for assistance from those who are talented, skilled and capable, and they work with them to find solutions.

Mold your own potential. Great leaders are constant learners. They make the time to constantly learn new things that up their game. What they knew yesterday is not good enough for today, and pressure is often caused when leaders don't know what the you are doing. They work on molding their own potential and, thus, are better equipped at handling the pressure.

Stay ahead of the curve. Great leaders try to stay ahead of the curve. They need to be present in the moment, but they are always planning for the future and thinking about the next step forward. When pressure mounts, their calm must prevail so they can think clearly about their next step.

Pressure in business is real and dealing with it is a genuine concern, but leaders who learn to balance this pressure with calm, clear thinking will prevail and succeed.

Source: Lolly Daskal is one of the most sought-after executive leadership coaches in the world. Her extensive cross-cultural expertise spans 14 countries, six languages and hundreds of companies. As founder and CEO of Lead From Within, her proprietary leadership program is engineered to be a catalyst for leaders who want to enhance performance and make a meaningful difference in their companies, their lives, and the world.