One of the greatest tolls on leaders is the cost of leading in moments of high stakes ambiguity. These moments feel heavy for leaders - they are leading with their whole head and heart on issues that feel beyond them. We totally get what it’s like to manage in these moments. You leaders are incredible as you assess risks, identify stop-gaps, shore up teams, look ahead, reach out to networks, and on, and on.
Often, the biggest risk in these scenarios is not that a leader will make a wrong decision. It’s that they become so burnt out that they can’t harness their intuition or energy at all. So, while you suit up for big moments of leadership, remember these three moves to help you come back to center.
Pause and acknowledge the moments when you are off center. Noted psychologist and meditation teacher Tara Brach talks about a practice of “recognizing and allowing” times where we need self compassion. For fast paced, hard charging leaders, sometimes it doesn’t feel like an option to have an off day. But, as Brené Brown says, naming things gives us power. Taking a moment to acknowledge that you are human, that you are navigating a new reality, that you have limitations gives you a chance to decide what you are going to do about it. So in those moments that you are feeling less-than-stellar, take time to pause and acknowledge what you are experiencing.
Explore what your biggest needs are. Often the emotional response you are experiencing might be pointing to an unmet underlying need. Yes, you might feel irritable, but what is underneath that? Yes, it’s frustrating that the team call didn’t go to plan today. But what else made the bumps seem extra challenging for you?
Click here to access a 3-Part Meditation to Help Clarify Your Needs Right Now.
Make the ask - of yourself or of others. With so many people asking YOU for things, it’s easy to forget that you can be someone who asks, too. Maybe what you need is a family dinner tonight without phone interruptions because you’re feeling disconnected from your loved ones. It could be a long, solitary hike this weekend to calm all of the noise. It could be calling a friend to say out loud how hard this is, or asking a colleague to facilitate an upcoming meeting so you can get a little more rest tonight. Commit to do what feels nurturing given where you are and what you need.
We know that you carry so much as a leader. Leading through ambiguity is never easy, but by prioritizing self-awareness and self-care, you can navigate these challenging times with greater resilience and clarity. Remember, your well-being is just as crucial as the well-being of your team and organization. So, as you continue to lead with courage and compassion, be kind to yourself, acknowledge your needs, and don't hesitate to ask for support. You've got this.
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