Winston Churchill famously said, “When you’re going through hell, keep going.” 

In business, this problem often takes a slightly different form: “When a leader is going through a challenging time, what should they do differently?”

The short answer is: Nothing. Keep going.

Effective leaders should not have to make radical changes in their overarching leadership style or persona when times get tough. There’s no perfect or ultimate leadership style, but developing a wide range of skills when everything’s going smoothly will help you respond appropriately when it’s time to face your first battle. 

So what does it take to become a leader who can lead through hell? Here are three qualities to hone before disaster strikes:

Trust. You must earn the trust of your people. Trust does not suddenly appear—you build it over time through consistency and, to some degree, vulnerability. 

Consistency doesn’t mean you’re rigid, but rather that you demonstrate steadfast character, reliability and fairness. 

Vulnerability is your readiness to expose your weaknesses, and admit your mistakes or shortcomings––within reason. It’s your willingness to ask for and accept help when needed––especially under fire. 

Confidence. Genuine confidence isn’t being sure of an outcome. It’s being reasonably sure that you are prepared for the challenge ahead––win, lose or draw. 

This type of confidence results only from dedicated training and preparation. Unfortunately, many leaders de-emphasize their own personal and professional development once they’re established in a position of authority.

The most effective leaders never let anything get in the way of their personal and professional development. The more you continue to grow as a leader and as a person, the more valuable you are to the people you serve––especially when the going gets tough.

Courage. Expose yourself to increasing challenges and take intelligent risks. Step up to challenges rather than avoiding them throughout your career. There are no shortcuts here. This is a long and often difficult process. Start early and never stop.

Churchill’s words call us to run toward our challenges––not away from them. Keep going next time you face hellish conditions, and you’ll discover new levels of courage, confidence and wisdom that will serve you well in the future. 

So the next time you face adversity, embrace it. It’s your opportunity to become the person––and leader––you may never have imagined.

Jim Bouchard is an international corporate and conference speaker, leadership expert, and author of “The Sensei Leader” and “Think Like a Black Belt.”