Perhaps every leader around the world has dealt with a huge amount of stress in 2020. And 2021 has not brought any relief thus far. Even those companies who are thriving during the pandemic had a different kind of stress.
I found that leaders who took the time to think through their actions and get feedback from other stakeholders did much better than those who did not. Yes, we have to cut costs and make tough decisions, but the way you go about it can make a big difference. A big difference to your company, your employees, and your customers.
Sometimes in the midst of a situation we do not realize how stressful it is. We need to be more self-aware and acknowledge that this situation is different, more complex, and perhaps with higher stakes than normal.
Once you know that your situation is more stressful than normal, it is important to remember that denial is not a good strategy. Simply saying we will be fine will not work. You do not have to be super-hero. It is ok to acknowledge that you are stressed and that it is having an impact. In fact, when you can name and acknowledge the stress you are feeling you are taking a positive step in dealing with it. Additionally, your recognition of the stress will help you lead by example – your denial could lead to the team’s denial as well.
You know how you respond when stressed. You can make that list, and please do. Whether you get agitated more easily, talk too quickly, yell too often, or become reclusive, know your “signs”. When you see yourself acting in those ways more frequently take that as a sign that you need to apply some approaches to reduce your stress. If you have a trusted advisor who can point these behaviors out to you, please ask for their help.
Decision making is an important part of our leadership role – and something that is often impacted by our stress level. Once you know you are feeling the stress of a situation, consider the following:
- Am I involving the right people in and getting the right perspectives on my decisions? Often in stressful times people make quick decisions and do not benefit from the insights of others.
- Is this the right decision? Stop and take a deep breath (which will help with your stress to start with), and look at your decision again – have you considered the right factors, and will this decision be successful?
Don’t stop after your decision is made and your action taken. Keep the team involved and communicate as much as you can with your employees. Now is not the time to stay in your office. If you have remote workers, keep them informed. Allow for questions. In the end your entire company will benefit from the way you handled an extremely stressful time.
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