Election season, the holidays and life in general can create a lot of emotions for everyone. Especially during this time, it is important for leaders to be aware and to help reduce collective stress and anxiety for their teams, both personally and professionally. If you’re a public leader, a business leader, or the head of your household, here are some tips to help keep anxiety and stress at bay for yourself and the people you lead.
With your leadership role you have the opportunity to help us all be better. You have a platform from which you can model the behavior that inspires us, that supports healing, recovery, and grace.
Words matter. Person first language can prevent negative labeling of someone based solely on a characteristic or health condition. Particularly when communicating with a person who has a disability, ask them how they would like to identify. This can generate mutual respect from the outset and foster better teamwork.
Tell the truth. Being able to trust what a person says is the foundation for everything else required in a relationship. Honesty is essential for a positive work culture. It builds hope for the future.
Listen to our stories. We all have a voice and value, and we all want to feel like we’ve been heard. Giving someone space and time to tell their own truth, even when yours is different, reduces stress and allows for fuller understanding.
Own your mistakes. Take responsibility for your actions. It shows strength, not weakness. All of us have made a major mistake at some point in our lives. Owning it, and apologizing, is how we grow, and encourages others to do the same. We all improve.
Celebrate differences and belonging. Encouraging each individual to bring their perspective and unique experience to the mission can create a synergy to solve the challenges before us. Leaders who value the dignity and talents of every human being share their finest leadership gift, and can inspire us to individual and collective greatness.
Support programs that promote wellness and recovery. We can’t contribute fully to the economy, or protect our country, or serve our families and neighbors if we aren’t well enough. Empowering us to be our best selves is the most important investment any leader can make.
Photo by Jehyun Sung on Unsplash
