From Chaos to Clarity: Why Leadership Starts with Systems

Stacy Schoettmer
Sep 1
2 min read

Let’s talk about something real for a minute.

If you’re a small business owner, a founder, or someone who’s just trying to lead well—chances are, you’ve felt it. That swirl of overwhelm. That feeling like you’re carrying too much, juggling too many roles, and somehow still dropping balls you swore you had a grip on.

I’ve been there. I’ve watched leaders I love hit that wall, too. And not because they’re lazy or disorganized—but because they care so much. They’re trying to serve well, lead well, and keep all the plates spinning. And somewhere in the middle of that beautiful chaos, they lose sight of their “why.”

Here’s what I want you to hear: Chaos doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re growing. And growth needs structure. Not rigid rules or corporate jargon—just simple, grace-filled systems that help you breathe again.

Systems Aren’t Cold. They’re Kind.

I know the word “systems” can sound intimidating. Like something reserved for big companies with fancy org charts and software subscriptions. But that’s not what I mean.

I’m talking about rhythms. Checklists. Process flows. Dashboards that help you see what’s going on and where you’re headed. Simple ways to delegate, communicate, and stay aligned with your purpose.

Systems don’t box you in—they set you free. They give you margin. They help your team know what’s expected. They make space for creativity, for connection, and for rest.

My Journey to Simply Succeed with Stacy

When I started Simply Succeed with Stacy, it was born out of a deep desire to help leaders find clarity again. I’d spent years watching brilliant people burn out—not because they weren’t capable, but because they didn’t have the support or structure they needed.

So I started building tools. Process flows. Checklists. Dashboards. Not to make things “perfect”—but to make things possible. To help leaders breathe again. To help them lead with peace, not pressure.

Because I believe systems are a form of stewardship. They honor your time, your team, and the calling on your life.

Try This: The Clarity Audit

If you’re feeling the swirl right now, here’s a gentle place to start. Ask yourself:

Do I have a rhythm for communicating with my team?
Is my delegation plan clear—or am I still doing everything myself?
Are my team and/or client touchpoints consistent and intentional?
Do I know who’s doing what—and when?
Is my calendar serving me, or stressing me out?

If even one of those made you pause, that’s okay. You’re not alone. And you’re not stuck.

I’ve created these seemingly simple questions to help you reflect—The Clarity Audit. It’s not fancy, but it’s powerful. It’ll help you see where the gaps are and where you can start making space again.