Leading on Empty: The Hidden Toll of Neglecting Yourself
As a leader, you're constantly focused on your team, your company, and your goals. But what happens when you neglect yourself in the process? The hidden cost of not prioritizing your own well-being isn’t just personal—it directly impacts your leadership, your team, and your business outcomes.
The Leadership Trap: Burning the Candle at Both Ends
Leadership comes with a weight that many don’t talk about. You set the tone, you make the tough calls, and you show up every day, even when you're running on empty. But working late nights, skipping breaks, and putting your well-being last isn’t a sign of dedication—it’s a fast track to burnout. And burnout doesn’t just affect you; it seeps into your leadership style, decision-making, and the energy you bring to your team.
The Ripple Effect: When Leaders Struggle, Teams Struggle
Did you know that poor employee well-being costs businesses an estimated $500 billion each year in lost productivity (Harvard Business Review)? When leaders are overwhelmed, exhausted, or running on fumes, it creates a trickle-down effect. Stress becomes contagious, engagement drops, and turnover increases. Companies that prioritize well-being, on the other hand, see a 25% decrease in turnover rates and a 10-20% increase in productivity (Gallup).
The Leadership Myth: Having All the Answers vs. Building a Thriving Culture
Many leaders feel the pressure to have all the answers, but great leadership isn’t about knowing everything—it’s about creating an environment where people feel seen, heard, and valued. The best leaders know that taking care of themselves allows them to show up with more clarity, more empathy, and more presence. This is where trust is built, and trust is the foundation of high-performing teams.
The Shift: Leading with Intention and Well-Being
If you’re a leader feeling stretched thin, the good news is that change is possible. Here are three things you can do right now to shift your leadership and, in turn, improve your team’s experience:
Assess Your Own Well-Being: Ask yourself, “Am I leading in a way that I would want my team to emulate?” If the answer is no, it’s time to make adjustments.
Check Your Onboarding & Leadership Development Processes: Employees feel the greatest impact of leadership when they first join a company. Talk to your newest hires about their experience—what worked, what didn’t, and what would have helped them feel more supported.
Build Meaningful Connections: Start your day by genuinely checking in with someone on your team. Not in a forced meeting setting, but in a way that shows you care. This small habit creates a culture of trust and connection.
The Call to Action: It Starts With You
Leadership is a constant evolution. If you want to create a thriving workplace, it starts with how you lead and care for yourself first. If you’re ready to shift your leadership and prioritize well-being in your organization, let’s talk about how I can support you.
Your leadership sets the stage for your entire organization—let’s make sure it’s one that supports both you and your team.
