Uncontrollable

Sometimes things get out of hand.  What you once believed to be manageable has become unwieldy and perhaps larger than you had ever imagined.  This can happen because you have a misunderstanding of the true situation or you have missed a key reality.  Soon you discover that the event has become uncontrollable.  Your next steps can be critical to your survival.

Assuming that you are at a critical moment, scenario playing and role-play are out of the question.  If your not there, start considering this powerful tool to help visualize all outcomes before you are in crisis mode.  If you are knee deep in quick sand and fading fast, here are some steps that will help:

1. Gather the information quickly.  
2. Compose yourself.
3. If you are at fault, accept responsibility.
4. Deliver instructions clearly and succinctly. (Confirm that they are understood)
5. Stand strong, once you've chosen the path, fight through.

As Abraham Lincoln once said, "Be sure you put your feet in the right place and stand firm."