Kym Ali, the CEO of Kym Ali Consulting, understands the challenges of leadership from her own experience as a corporate executive turned entrepreneur. Through her conversations with other leaders, she has discovered a common theme of burnout, unfulfillment, and contemplation of career changes due to lack of support and overwhelming demands. In this article, Ali delves into the reasons behind senior leaders feeling this way and offers insights on how to overcome these challenges.
One of the primary causes of burnout for senior leaders is the lack of support from upper management or board members. Many leaders find themselves without the resources, financial backing, or development opportunities they need to succeed. Additionally, decision-making resistance from these higher-ups adds to the stress of executive positions. The constant pressure to meet deadlines and deliverables, combined with high cortisol levels due to chronic stress, can lead to severe health issues such as headaches, sleep deprivation, anxiety, depression, and even heart attacks and strokes.
To address burnout among senior leaders, Ali suggests starting by reconnecting with core values and reflecting on why they took their current role. Understanding what truly matters is key to visualizing what changes they would like to implement. Seeking support through mentorship and coaching can be valuable in providing guidance and insight based on personal experiences. Exploring new opportunities within or outside of the current organization, prioritizing personal care, and effectively managing workload are also essential strategies for combating burnout.
Taking care of physical, emotional, and spiritual needs is crucial for maintaining a leader’s edge and effectiveness. Engaging in activities that release endorphins, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, can uplift mood, maintain focus, and sharpen decision-making skills. Adopting a systematic approach to managing tasks by prioritizing, delegating, delaying, or eliminating can help reduce stress and burnout. By taking charge of mental health, leaders set a positive tone for company culture and improve decision-making, mental health, and team engagement.
In conclusion, burnout among senior leaders is a serious issue that often goes unnoticed. However, by understanding the root causes and implementing practical strategies, leaders can feel more fulfilled and effective in their roles. By prioritizing personal care, seeking support through mentorship and coaching, exploring new opportunities, and managing workload effectively, leaders can combat burnout and create a healthier work environment for themselves and their teams. Being proactive in addressing burnout is crucial for long-term success and well-being in leadership roles.
