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The Emotional Baggage of Leadership

Bryan Gillum • Mar 31, 2023

Leaders are people and all people have tough things to work through.

I’ve been coaching leaders for several years and have learned there is generally one thing standing in their way of reaching their potential – themselves.
 
All of us, every single one of us, carries some sort of baggage or issue around with us.  Insecurity, fear, depression, anxiety, inadequacy, loneliness, lack of confidence, etc, etc, etc.  Leaders are people and all people have tough things to work through.  Unfortunately, leaders aren’t able to turn off or ignore them when they start work.  Instead, they bring their tough things to work and try to navigate them as they lead others.
 
For most companies, leaders are the lifeblood of the organization, and their success generally correlates to the success of the business.  So how does an executive or business owner develop and support their leaders and ensure the success of the business?
 
Increase Awareness:
Most leaders underestimate how much the challenges they face in their personal lives impact their ability to lead others.  When a leader has an opportunity to discuss their performance with a coach or supportive leader, they will begin to understand how some of their past experiences and current challenges are impacting their ability to lead effectively.
 
Be Aware:
High performing leaders do not like to fail.  In most cases, they will do everything within their control to not fail.  But sometimes they are unable to deal with their emotions, their fears and their loss of control.  When the pressure becomes too much, they may erupt or withdraw or try to hide their failure.  All leaders are susceptible to tough seasons and trials.  Watch for the early warning signs and don’t discount the impact.
 
Be Supportive:
When your leader struggles, the best thing you can do is be empathetic, understanding and supportive.  It is incredibly hard when you see the impact on your business.  However, the entire organization will be watching how you react and will take notice of your actions and approach.  This is a great opportunity for an executive to show their character.
 
Remain Objective:
While it is important to handle people with respect and patience, you also have a business to run.  Don’t allow a leader’s personal challenges have a significant impact on business performance.  Consider giving them additional paid time off, reassigning them to a different position during a “season” or explore other options to minimize the impact it has on the business.
 
Our Leader Effectiveness Assessment provides leaders and executives with greater self-awareness and approaches to navigate tough seasons.  Need help with a challenging leader “issue”, give us a call.  We’ve been coaching leaders for more than 15 years and have proven methodologies to help address generally any challenge you face.
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