Mergers and RIFs are the biggest culture crushers. Leaders tend to underestimate both the amount of fear(s) that will bubble up and the amount of time it will take to fully integrate cultures (thanks, Gu).
Leaders are believers and leaders are connectors. Slow down and first get clear on what you believe. Why is this a good thing? What’s the vision? Lead with your belief and connect your belief to the team. AND just as importantly, connect with them around what they’re experiencing, around their fears, around their obstacles. Slow down and be with them.
This will all take time. Slowing down will paradoxically get you “through it” faster.
BUILT TO LEAD 
Super helpful to hear this and timely. Thank you Rachel.
Much better