There was a dip in CEO confidence in 2019. According to PwC’s 22nd Global CEO Survey 2019 – ASEAN findings, more than 4 out of 5 CEOs were concerned over trade conflicts (83%) and geopolitical uncertainty (81%) while around 3 out of 4 saw policy uncertainty (78%), over regulation (77%) and protectionism (73%) as threat to their organisation’s growth prospects.
This is particularly worrisome at a time when CEOs are facing significant challenges with COVID-19.
Yes, tough decisions land on a CEO’s desk every day. And, the buck stops at the CEO. The CEO is the supposed to be the one who has all the answers. Being in a C-level position has its benefits but it has its perils too. The corner office comes with its psychological pressures. And it can be pretty lonely place. Also, it’s impossible for one person to manage the stress of all the responsibilities without a strong support system in place.
Here are some tips for dealing with the anxiety and stress that comes with being alone in the corner office:
1. Accept the feeling
Such feelings are not indicator of your being ineffective or lacking. While CXOs often feel the walls closing in, they are hesitant when it comes to talking about the loneliness. CXOs should recognize and accept these feelings and reach out to a coach, mentor or peers to help deal with the susceptibility.
2. Act quickly
It is important for leaders to act quickly once they have recognized feelings of isolation, because over the long run it can confuse you into thinking that something is wrong with you. It can help to talk to someone who knows what it’s like to sit in a chair of responsibility. Instead of feeling isolated, you’ll feel connected to a thinking partner who can help you and your company reach the next level.
3. Rethink how you spend you spare time
A leadership role can consume you. When the responsibilities and revenue pressures weigh on you, it is easy to feel burdened. Finding time for leisure, sleep and exercise apart from taking time out with family and friends can help you restore yourself so you remain fresh.
4. Share the responsibility
It pays to communicate and delegate responsibilities with clarity to the rest of the team. This coming from the CEO and not the Head HR adds passion and credibility to convince employees to give their best in moving towards your vision. Do this again and again and you are bound to have your team rise up to own more responsibility.
5. Break the negative cycle
Create an office ritual of fun activities with your team. This will not only help you break the negative cycle, but also bring you closer to your team. When the team is having fun and playing its part well towards realizing your vision, the entire unit will function as one and it won’t seem as lonely on the top.
6. Create your own support ecosystem
You should work towards creating a support ecosystem of peers across industries to discuss issues and challenges openly. Feelings of doubt or reaching out for help does not make you look weak. You should not feel ashamed to talk about your problems with your support group, coach or mentor.
