Women, The Workplace, Leadership

Assuming leadership often entails a measure of solitude.

Leadership is often glorified and glamorized, but the truth is it can be a difficult and draining role. It requires strength, resilience, and sacrifice.

Leaders are constantly under pressure to perform, to make tough decisions, to have difficult conversations and to meet the demands of those around them. It is also not uncommon for leaders to face relentless criticism, second-guessing and retaliation by employees.

For me, the experience was one of loneliness and isolation, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The weight of responsibility took a toll on my mental and physical health. Many of my coaching clients, particularly women in leadership positions, report experiencing similar feelings.

Leadership can be especially difficult for women who often experience discrimination in the form of sexism along with additional challenges and biases. Lean In’s Annual Women in the Workplace study — the largest of its kind — highlights the barriers women face at work. One example is Likeability bias also known as the Likeability penalty. It is rooted in age-old expectations. Men are expected to be assertive, so when they lead, it feels natural. Women are expected to be kind and communal, so when they assert themselves, they’re liked less.

A 2020 Lean In report focused on Black women in corporate America found we often experience racism at work including being seen as diversity hires despite our qualifications and achievements. This undermines our credibility and hard work. In many instances we are the “only” in the room. Additionally, according to the Women in the Workplace study, Black women are subjected to constant microaggressions, and feel forced to code-switch by changing their mannerisms, tone, or the way they talk in order to fit in. We often do not to speak up or share our opinion to avoid appearing difficult or aggressive and being labeled with the angry Black woman stereotype.

All of this can be incredibly demoralizing and distracting from our work. These issues not only affect the individuals themselves but also have an impact on diversity and inclusion efforts in the workplace (the assault on DEI initiatives will be discussed in a later newsletter). Consequently, Black women are leaving corporate boardrooms to establish their own enterprises and represent the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs in the United States.

Effective leadership and retaining talented leaders are crucial to the success of any organization. Even the most established leaders need support to reach their full potential. From mentorship programs to ongoing training and development opportunities, leaders need allies, resources and tools to succeed.

While leadership certainly has its benefits, such as crafting a vision and nurturing employee development, we often overlook the negative aspects that can have detrimental effects on individuals, teams, and organizations. By acknowledging and tackling these issues, we can work towards creating healthier and more productive work environments.

I know firsthand how easy it is as a leader to place the needs of others before your own. However, neglecting your own well-being can lead to burnout and decreased effectiveness. Here are some strategies for leaders to take care of themselves:

1. Make time for self-care activities (USE YOUR PTO): Whether it’s exercise, meditation, hobbies, or traveling, prioritize activities that bring you joy and relaxation. For those who struggle with taking time off, try thinking of it this way. PTO is a part of your compensation. You don’t leave money on the table so why are you leaving your earned time off on it?

2. Set boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your priorities and values. This can help reduce stress and create time for self-care.

3. Connect with others: Build relationships with people who support and uplift you. This can provide a sense of community and belonging, which can be essential for well-being.

4. Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings without judgment. This can help you stay present and reduce stress.

5. Seek support: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help when needed. This can include talking to a therapist or a coach like me who has been in your position or joining a support group.

By prioritizing your own well-being, you can be a more effective leader and better serve those around you.

As Women’s History Month draws to an end, let us persist in our collective efforts to establish equality for women in the workplace and in leadership roles all year long.

Thank you for your support and referrals!

Renee