“A true leader has the confidence to stand alone...”Douglas Mc Arthur
It is high time we must break such myths about leadership qualities and Prioritize leaders wellbeing.
One of my friends said to me, " I can't talk about how I am feeling. As a leader if I open up my team and my leadership peers will doubt my leadership capabilities. "
As Brene Brown said, " Vulnerability is not winning or losing; it is having courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome."
"In today's fast-paced and demanding world, the mental wellbeing of leaders is often overlooked, yet it is crucial not only for their own health but also for the success of their teams and organizations. As leaders navigate the complexities of their roles, they must prioritize their mental health, recognizing that it directly impacts their physical and emotional wellbeing. It's time to challenge the prevailing notion of the stoic, invulnerable leader and acknowledge the toll that unrealistic expectations can take.
With the ever-evolving landscape of leadership, characterized by the need for new communication skills, high performance maintenance, and ambiguity management, leaders find themselves under immense pressure. This pressure is compounded by the expectation to motivate and support teams who are also grappling with their own challenges.
Unfortunately, many leaders feel isolated in their struggles, believing they cannot show vulnerability without risking their perceived competence.
This internal struggle:
Leads to a culture of silence where leaders feel compelled to hide their struggles, fearing judgment or repercussions from their teams and peers.
Prevents leaders from seeking the support they need, exacerbating feelings of isolation and stress.
Contributes to a cycle of burnout and mental health issues among leaders, which ultimately impacts their ability to lead effectively.
Perpetuates the misconception that vulnerability is a sign of weakness rather than strength, limiting opportunities for personal growth and connection.
Negatively impacts organizational culture, as the emphasis on perfection and invulnerability creates a toxic work environment where authenticity and empathy are undervalued.
Shift in leadership paradigms towards one that values vulnerability, authenticity, and mental wellbeing as essential components of effective leadership is need of the hour.
I have found PERMA MODEL the most effective one for the wellbeing of all age group people and people in any kind of role from teenagers to professionals.
"Martin Seligman, a renowned psychologist, introduced the PERMA model as a framework for understanding and enhancing wellbeing. At its core, PERMA stands for Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishments. It emphasizes the importance of cultivating these elements in our lives to foster a sense of fulfillment and happiness. As leaders navigate the complexities of their roles, integrating the PERMA model into their daily routines becomes essential. By prioritizing positive emotions, meaningful engagement, strong relationships, a sense of purpose, and celebrating achievements, leaders not only enhance their own wellbeing but also create a conducive environment for their teams to thrive."
Let's break down how each element of the PERMA model can be integrated into daily leadership practices:
Positive Emotions: Encouraging leaders to start their day with gratitude exercises or positive affirmations can set a positive tone for the day. Additionally, incorporating moments of celebration and recognition for achievements, no matter how small, can uplift spirits and foster a positive work environment. Breathing exercise known as " Pranayam " is the tested way to convert stress and negative emotions to peace and positivity.
Engagement: Providing opportunities for leaders to immerse themselves in meaningful tasks that align with their strengths and passions can enhance their sense of engagement and fulfillment. This could involve setting aside dedicated time for tasks they enjoy or find challenging but rewarding.
Relationships: Cultivating strong interpersonal connections is crucial for leaders' wellbeing. Encouraging regular check-ins with team members, fostering open communication, and prioritizing collaboration can strengthen relationships and create a supportive work environment.
Meaning: Helping leaders connect with the broader purpose and impact of their work can enhance their sense of meaning and fulfillment. This could involve reflecting on their personal values, setting meaningful goals, and aligning their actions with their core beliefs.
Accomplishments: Celebrating progress and accomplishments, no matter how small, can boost leaders' confidence and motivation. Encouraging them to track their achievements, set realistic goals, and celebrate milestones can contribute to a sense of accomplishment and progress.
Incorporating these elements into leaders' daily routines can help promote holistic wellbeing and enhance their effectiveness as leaders. By prioritizing their own wellbeing, leaders can set a positive example for their teams and create a culture that values and supports mental health.
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