Leading Under Extreme Conditions – What Executives Can Learn from Homicide Investigations
When people hear that I work as the head of a homicide unit, they often ask me:
“How do you cope with that? How can you handle this constant strain?”
The truth is: you learn to deal with extreme situations – not because you are less affected, but because you develop clear routines, strategic approaches, and a stable team.
These experiences can be directly transferred to the business world. Executives also have to make decisions under time pressure, with incomplete information, and high expectations.
1. Focus on the “Circle of Control”
In investigations, there are countless factors we cannot influence: the behavior of witnesses, external circumstances, political expectations.
What matters is to concentrate on what is actually manageable – our own circle of control.
👉 Executives should consciously direct their energy towards their circle of control. This prevents feelings of helplessness, increases decision-making ability, and sustainably reduces stress.
2. Create an Open Culture of Talking About Stress
In police work, it is essential to openly talk about experiences after stressful operations. This culture ensures mental stability and strengthens team trust.
Companies can learn from this:
An open culture about mistakes and stress keeps employees capable, resilient, and motivated.
3. Making Decisions Without Complete Information
In homicide investigations, decisions often have to be made with only 70% of the information available. Waiting for perfection can have fatal consequences.
For executives the same applies:
Perfectionism paralyzes, taking action moves forward.
Make decisions even under uncertainty – while staying flexible enough to adjust when new facts arise.
4. Establish Rituals for Mental Strength
Mental strength is not built in crisis situations – it grows through daily routines. For me that means: exercise, family time, conscious breaks.
Companies can support their employees by offering:
Flexible working hours, mindfulness programs, and time for self-care.
These are not luxuries – they are the foundation of long-term health.
Conclusion: What Executives Can Learn
The parallels between homicide investigations and business leadership are surprisingly strong. Whether in policing or in business – it’s always about staying clear under pressure, taking responsibility, and leading people.
Executives who focus on the circle of control, foster an open team culture, make bold decisions even under uncertainty, and pay attention to mental strength create the best conditions to succeed – even in the most challenging situations.