We often discuss leading businesses through adversity, but what about leading when YOU are going through personal adversity?
How do you show up daily to lead others and a business when navigating your own personal crisis?
Let's be clear about what constitutes a personal crisis. We're not talking about minor setbacks like a fender bender or an unexpected bill. We're referring to life-altering events such as:
These are the crises that cut to your core and have the potential to shake your foundation.
Be honest with yourself about what you can and cannot (and should and should not) do during this time. Reassess your to-do list and adjust accordingly.
Share your situation with key individuals who can support you:
If you're not comfortable sharing details, a simple statement like, "I may be out from time to time handling a personal situation. Our supervisor and HR are aware, so all is handled here. I appreciate your understanding" can suffice.
This may not come naturally, but asking for and accepting help is often crucial to personal and professional growth.
Identify what self-care means to you—whether it's exercise, meditation, socializing, or simply getting enough sleep—and prioritize it.
For high-achieving executives, accepting that you can't do it all can be challenging. Give yourself grace and forgiveness during this time.
Sarah, the CEO of a mid-sized tech company, faced this challenge when her spouse was diagnosed with a serious illness. Initially, she tried to maintain her usual workload while supporting her partner through treatment. However, she quickly realized this wasn't sustainable.
Sarah decided to be transparent with her executive team about her situation. She delegated some of her responsibilities, adjusted meeting schedules to accommodate medical appointments, and made a conscious effort to prioritize self-care.
By communicating clearly and allowing herself to be vulnerable with her team, Sarah not only managed to lead effectively during this personal crisis but also fostered a more empathetic and supportive company culture.
Whatever your crisis, give yourself the grace to manage through it personally and professionally in the time and space required. Remember, showing vulnerability and asking for support when needed can actually strengthen your leadership and your team.
Leading during personal adversity is challenging, but with the right strategies and mindset, it's possible to navigate these difficult waters while maintaining your effectiveness as a leader.