Leaders are often painted as infallible, and this can take a toll. In this article, I want to touch on the seven steps to tackle leadership burnout and discuss the importance of mental health awareness for executives who are on their way to exhaustion.
These steps to tackle burnout are practical and straightforward, and I believe they can make a real difference.
Step 1: Put your mask on first
Just like on a plane, you need to put your mask on first before helping others. Manage your energy by ensuring you get enough sleep—seven to eight hours if possible. Identify the times of day when you are most productive and creative, and schedule your important tasks during these periods.
Step 2: The ability to say no
Many leaders struggle to say no, which leads to overcommitment and burnout. Set boundaries and learn to say no in a constructive way. As much as you can, delegate tasks to your team members and trust them to handle responsibilities. This will free up your time for more strategic work.
Step 3: Empower your team and delegate
Leaders often attend meetings with their team members, which can signal a lack of trust. Instead, delegate meeting attendance to your team and have them report back to you. This not only builds trust but also empowers your people.
Step 4: Get good at the basics
Focus on the basics: sleep, diet, exercise, breathing, and water intake. Ensure you get quality sleep, eat healthily, exercise regularly, breathe deeply and stay hydrated. These simple actions can significantly impact your overall well-being and can’t be overlooked, even when you’re in a busy leadership role.
Step 5: Stop being in denial—be real
Acknowledge where you are and be realistic about your situation. If you’re experiencing leadership burnout, denial won’t help you address your issues. Sometimes, you might need professional help to gain a clear understanding of your circumstances and find effective solutions.
Step 6: Take decent breaks
Taking decent breaks is crucial to avoid and address leadership burnout. Whether it’s a holiday or regular breaks throughout the day, stepping away from work can help you recharge. Even short breaks, like a 10-20 minute walk, can make a significant difference in your energy levels and productivity.
Step 7: Be deliberate
Many people operate on autopilot, going through their day unconsciously. Be deliberate and purposeful in your actions. Focus on being present in the moment, and make conscious decisions about how you spend your time and energy.
Your mental health is important
Mental health awareness is crucial for leaders. Many are struggling due to the pressures of work and life, exacerbated by the pandemic and the economic pressure it caused. If you need help, it’s okay to ask for it. There are professionals available to support you, and sometimes, just talking to someone about leadership burnout can make a big difference.
Look out for yourself, your team and your peers but remember, the most important person to take care of is yourself.
