Effective leadership in high-stress situations is critical in fields such as law enforcement and security, where split-second decisions can mean the difference between success and failure, safety and danger. Leaders in these sectors must exhibit a unique blend of skills and attributes to manage their teams effectively and ensure optimal outcomes during crises. Drawing insights from seasoned professionals like Andrew Smith, a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) with over 30 years of experience, this article explores key strategies for effective leadership in high-stress situations.