The Bottomless Bowl
January 28, 2026
In one of my favorite old sitcoms, Get Smart, actor Don Adams played Agent 86, Maxwell Smart, who worked for a U.S. spy agency called CONTROL. Their arch-nemesis? An international spy agency called KAOS (K-A-O-S).
It occurred to me that the battle between chaos and control is a great metaphor for life—and leadership. When things seem to be going sideways, one of the best things we can do is separate what we can control from what we can’t. Just like in that hilarious sitcom—and I highly recommend watching it if you haven’t—the best way to handle chaos is to focus on what you can control.
This applies to leadership in a big way. The most effective leaders know how to navigate uncertainty, keep their teams focused, and avoid getting stuck in the noise of things beyond their influence. Here are three practical ways leaders can apply this mindset to be more efficient and effective:
- Clarify Priorities Daily – Start each day by identifying the most important tasks that are within your control. Direct your energy there instead of wasting time worrying about external disruptions.
- Empower Your Team – Instead of micromanaging, help your team focus on their own areas of control. Give them clear expectations and trust them to handle their responsibilities.
- Manage Your Own Reactions – When chaos arises, take a moment to step back and assess the situation. Respond thoughtfully rather than reacting emotionally—your team will follow your lead.
In both leadership and life, success isn’t about eliminating chaos—it’s about managing it wisely. Focus on what you can control, and let go of what you can’t.
