Depression is a silent struggle that many leaders face, often behind closed doors. As an executive leadership coach, I witness the pressure to perform, the weight of responsibility, and the constant demands of leadership that can take a heavy toll on mental health. Many leaders worry that admitting to depression will be perceived as weakness, but in reality, acknowledging and addressing it is a sign of true strength and self-awareness.
That’s why I have made it my mission to help leaders tackle depression head-on. Through my work, I have identified three small but powerful changes that can make a significant difference in a leader’s well-being and effectiveness. By implementing these strategies, I have seen leaders transform their relationship with depression and unlock new levels of resilience and success.
Prioritize Self-Care: Self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for effective leadership. Make time for activities that recharge your batteries, whether it’s exercise, meditation, or pursuing a hobby. Prioritize sleep, eat well, and create boundaries between work and personal life. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to handle the challenges of leadership.
Develop Supportive Relationships: Leadership can be isolating, but you don’t have to go it alone. Surround yourself with a support system of trusted colleagues, mentors, or friends who understand the unique pressures of leadership. Share your struggles, seek advice, and lean on others when needed. Having a strong network of support can help you navigate the ups and downs of leadership with greater resilience.
Reframe Negative Thoughts: Depression often feeds on negative self-talk and pessimistic thinking patterns. Practice reframing negative thoughts into more balanced, realistic perspectives. Instead of dwelling on failures or setbacks, focus on learning and growth opportunities. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and cultivate a mindset of self-compassion and optimism. By shifting your thought patterns, you can break free from the grip of depression.
Implementing these three small changes can have a profound impact on your mental health and leadership effectiveness. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it’s a critical component of being a strong, resilient leader.
Lead from Within: To lead others effectively, you must first lead yourself out of the darkness of depression.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- Leadership: Set Your Priorities And Find Your Balance
- The Different Mindsets That Distinguish the Best Leaders from the Rest
- The 10 Decision That Can Change Your Leadership Life
- The Leadership Mindset: How to Think Like a Successful Leader
- One Important Way to Enjoy Your Leadership (and Life) More
- This is How Your Mindset Is Affecting Your Leadership
- You Need to Have a Leadership Mindset if You Want to Succeed
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.