Whether it’s political change, a company reorganization, a business challenge, or industry turmoil, it can be difficult to manage stress and stay focused.
Often, employees look to a company’s leadership for cues on how to handle uncertainty. Humans are very good at subtly picking up on the emotions of those around them, especially those leading their organization, according to Susan David, who founded the Institute of Coaching and authored Emotional Agility.
That’s why it’s so important to make sure you are leading with compassion. If you are channeling your own emotions well, and exhibiting compassion and empathy to those working underneath you, your team will be more likely to be able to handle challenging times and manage stress.
Additionally, it’s important to acknowledge the uncertainty your people are feeling. Your employees’ worries and experiences are very real and shouldn’t be ignored or denied. Research suggests that rituals help. Do what you can to get both yourself and the people working for you in the habit of developing a healthy routine. The fact is, enacting positive, affirming rituals helps to dispel stress.
In the end, the overarching point here is that YOU have the power to influence how the people working for you handle stress and anxiety. Make the right choices for your sake, your people’s sake, and the sake of your organization.