In the fast-paced environment of modern leadership, the responsibilities of guiding a team often intersect with personal challenges, creating a delicate balancing act. A recent Monday morning served as a sobering reminder of this for one leader, who began the week with terse emails highlighting a few missteps from the prior week. These errors, including an offhand remark that hurt a colleague’s feelings and mishandled travel plans, stemmed from personal distractions that had not been communicated to the team.
The situation prompted reflection on the core tenet of authentic leadership: being honest and open with one’s team. Acknowledging mistakes and sharing the underlying reasons for distractions can foster understanding and strengthen professional relationships. Importantly, it also provides an example to colleagues of how to navigate personal challenges while maintaining professional integrity.
The past year has been a period of profound difficulty for many, marked by personal losses and broader societal challenges. Recent global events, such as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, have further amplified stress and trauma. In an era of 24/7 media coverage, even those without direct connections to the affected regions have felt overwhelmed. For professionals in the risk intelligence and security sectors, the impact is often deeply personal.
At ERI, a security and intelligence organisation, analysts with ties to both sides of the conflict have exemplified resilience and professionalism. Despite the emotional toll and demanding workloads, these individuals have supported one another while working tirelessly to deliver critical intelligence to clients. Their commitment underscores the importance of fostering a supportive workplace culture, particularly during challenging times.
Life-disrupting events—whether illness, loss, or other significant changes—affect everyone at some point. Yet, for many, stepping away from work entirely to process these events is not an option. Leaders who fail to share their struggles risk creating a communication void, leaving team members to draw their own, often incorrect, conclusions. Sharing vulnerabilities and challenges can humanise leaders, building trust and offering a valuable learning opportunity for colleagues.
The link between personal disruption and workplace well-being is well-documented. According to a recent SHRM study, 60% of respondents identified work as the most significant factor influencing their mental health. Professions involving care-taking and security, such as healthcare, law enforcement, and the military, are particularly susceptible to mental health challenges due to the intense emotional and psychological demands of the job. Alarmingly, these professions also report higher rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide.
Leadership, therefore, involves not only supporting one’s team but also prioritising self-care. The mental toll of work and life is universal, and no one is immune to its effects. By being open about struggles and seeking support when needed, leaders can create a ripple effect, encouraging their teams to do the same. This openness builds stronger support networks, improving collective resilience and well-being.
The leader’s reflections on their own recent missteps offer a valuable lesson: authenticity, transparency, and empathy are the cornerstones of effective leadership during disruptive times. By addressing personal and professional challenges head-on, leaders can set an example of how to navigate adversity, fostering a culture of trust and mutual support.
In a world fraught with uncertainty and change, the ability to manage disruption while maintaining a commitment to one’s team is an essential skill. As leaders take care of their people, they must also remember to take care of themselves. By sharing the load and embracing honesty, they not only lighten their own burden but also empower their teams to face challenges with resilience and strength.
