In the exciting world of leadership, the spotlight often shines on external strategies, tactics, and achievements. However, when we get down to it, there are many internal battles being faced. Leaders wrestle with internal challenges all the time – self doubt and personal obstacles that can impact their ability to lead effectively. To be an effective leader, one must do so from a healthy place. Below are 5 ways to get to a healthy place of leadership.
#1 – Recognizing Internal Issues
Being a leader does not mean you are immune from the complexities of just being human. I think people feel leaders are the all powerful Wizard of OZ, but we are far from that. From self-doubt and imposter syndrome to personal setbacks and emotional turmoil, leaders often face internal battles that can cloud judgment and hinder decision making ability, and effectiveness. Acknowledging these internal issues is the first step towards leading from a place of authenticity.
#2 – Embracing Vulnerability
I hear what you are saying, “GIRRRLLLL I can’t be vulnerable with these people”!
This may hurt a few toes, but vulnerability is not a weakness but a strength. As leaders, embracing vulnerability means acknowledging our own limitations, fears, and insecurities – and being open about them with our teams. By modeling vulnerability, leaders create an environment of trust and authenticity, where team members feel safe to express themselves and seek support when needed. Some leaders do not want to be vulnerable because they want those they lead to feel as if they know everything. News flash, you don’t know everything!
#3 – Practicing Self-Compassion
Leading from a healthy place requires self-compassion. Self-compassion is the ability to treat ourselves with kindness and understanding, especially in times of struggle. Do you practice self-compassion?
It’s easy for leaders to be self-critical and possess an unhealthy desire to be perfect, but cultivating self-compassion allows us to bounce back from setbacks with resilience and grace. Grace is a huge part of leading from a healthy place. Remember, leadership is not about being flawless, but about showing up as your authentic self and learning from your experiences.
#4 – Seeking Support
Leadership can be a lonely journey, but it doesn’t have to be isolating. It is always good to get support from mentors, peers, or professional coaches. This can provide invaluable guidance and give unbiased perspectives when navigating internal challenges. This guidance can be through one-on-one conversations, peer support groups, or leadership development programs. Connecting with others who understand the unique pressures of leadership can help leaders feel less alone and more empowered to overcome internal obstacles.
# 5 – Prioritizing Self-Care
Self-care is a must when leading from a healthy place – nurturing our physical, mental, and emotional well-being to sustain ourselves day in and day out. Self-care means setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, staying active, and taking regular breaks to recharge. No one cares if you are the first person in the office and the last one out. No one cares if you are taking work home. The only thing this does is increase your stress and causes burnout. Who cares if others feel self-care is selfish. I give you permission to be selfish. Self-care is necessary if you want to be an effective leader and inspire those around you.
Leading from a healthy place has nothing to do with achieving external success; that is temporary satisfaction. Healthy leadership it about cultivating inner strength, authenticity, and resilience in the face of internal challenges. By recognizing our own vulnerabilities, practicing self-compassion, seeking support, and prioritizing self-care, puts us in a position to lead with integrity, empathy, and purpose – inspiring others to do the same.
As leaders, let’s commit to leading from a healthy place – not just for ourselves, but for the well-being and success of our teams and organizations. Together, we can create a culture of leadership that values authenticity, empathy, and resilience – one that empowers individuals to thrive and organizations to flourish.