9 Fears That All Leaders Face

By The People At Work

Inspired by Sun Tzu’s “Art of War”

Summary: Fear, like laughter, is one of those things that unites us all as humans. Whether you’re in bustling Asia or anywhere else in the world, fear knows no boundaries. Sun Tzu’s ancient text, “The Art of War”, often associated with military tactics adapted to strategic brilliance in business and leadership, also offers unique insights into the common fears that all leaders face.

Sun Tzu’s wisdom is a reminder that while fear is a universal experience, it is often also the source of empowerment and success in leadership, strategy, and life itself. And the first step to overcoming fear is acknowledging it.

1. Fear of the Unknown

Just as generals confront the unknown on the battlefield, leaders at work face the uncertainty of venturing into uncharted territories. Sun Tzu’s anecdote is pragmatic: actively gather market intel, analyse trends, and devise tailored strategies. Armed with specific insights and a well-crafted plan, you’re in a better position to chart the course with better chances of success.

2. Fear of Failure

Sun Tzu sheds light on this ever-present spectre in battlefields and boardrooms. In either domain, preparation and adaptability are key. Prepare by understanding your markets and competition, and be ready to seize opportunities. The act of seizing opportunities not only defies fear; it also creates momentum for success. By being decisive, you transform fear into a catalyst for growth

3. Fear of Losing Control

Micromanagement, stifling of creativity, and even paralysis are symptoms of this fear. Sun Tzu’s philosophy advocates for flexibility—the ability to pivot and adjust to change. He stressed the importance of focusing on outcomes rather than being bogged down in the minutiae of daily operations. By giving your team the leeway to use their own judgement, you empower them to face their own fears and foster a collaborative environment where success is shared.

4. Fear of Conflict

Conflict, whether in warfare or business, evokes apprehension. Hence, Sun Tzu’s advice for leaders was to choose their battles wisely. He emphasised that the only wars worth engaging in are the ones that contribute to your larger strategy. Be proactive and initiate action to control the situation so that every step is not a reaction to circumstances. When you dictate the terms of engagement, you mitigate the fear of getting caught off guard or being forced into a conflict on unfavourable terms.

5. Fear of Being Outsmarted

Leaders often fear being outwitted by opponents or competitors. Sun Tzu encouraged anticipation and understanding of the enemy’s moves while embracing the elements of surprise. In his words, “He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not will be victorious.” By patiently studying the tactics, motivations, and patterns of your opponents, you can uncover their vulnerabilities and opportunities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

6. Fear of Betrayal

In the world of strategy and leadership, fear of being betrayed is a constant concern. Sun Tzu’s teachings underscore the importance of alliances, trust, and loyalty. Select capable and trustworthy individuals, and cultivate a culture of trust. Sun Tzu’s philosophy also advocates for transparency and open communication. When you maintain clear lines of dialogue with your team and allies, you can address concerns, dispel doubts, and prevent misunderstandings that might otherwise fester into betrayal.

7. Fear of Resource Scarcity

When supplies and resources run low, it can impede operations, lead to competitive disadvantages, necessitate difficult decisions, threaten survival, and result in strategic vulnerabilities. Sun Tzu’s teachings emphasise resourcefulness and strategic allocation. His famous aphorism, “In war, the way is to avoid what is strong and to strike at what is weak,” highlights the importance of astute resource allocation. Rather than confronting powerful adversaries head-on, identify and target areas of weakness or opportunity to optimise the use of your limited resources.

8. Fear of Stagnation

Leaders are apprehensive about remaining static, either in strategy or innovation, as this can lead to missed opportunities and eventual decline. Sun Tzu’s wisdom advocates for continuous learning, adaptation, and the pursuit of opportunities. By challenging the status quo and facing difficult situations head-on, leaders will not only survive but thrive in evolving circumstances. Actively seek and embrace change. By confronting challenges, questioning assumptions, and being open to new possibilities, fear becomes your driving force for progress.

9. Fear of Overextension

This fear arises from the recognition that committing too many resources or efforts to a single objective can lead to negative consequences. Sun Tzu’s advice for leaders is to be prudent. When an enemy pretends to flee, do not chase them blindly, as it might be a trap. Similarly, avoid picking fights with opponents simply because they are eager to fight. Instead, be smart and use your resources wisely. Don’t fall for tricks, and avoid unnecessary conflict that can drain your energy and resources.

This emotion, deeply ingrained in the human experience, resonates with all levels of executives.

Embracing vulnerability and nurturing growth constitutes an essential odyssey for leaders. As we explore these universal fears through the prism of Sun Tzu’s timeless wisdom, we are reminded that leaders are fundamentally human, grappling with a tapestry of emotions every day. In this recognition of our shared humanity, we extend our compassion to all leaders, acknowledging the remarkable resilience they embody and the paths they courageously tread.