Putting yourself first
- By Sian Taylor
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- 25 Jun, 2019
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Change and uncertainty
Leading change can be a challenge.
And even more so in uncertain times.
External forces can create numerous pressures that push and pull in opposing directions and changes within the organisation can lead to foundations that once felt stable and solid, becoming loose and fluid.
People become unsettled. Start talking. Preoccupied in the what if and what might happen, less focused on the here and now.
Process and procedure change. Confusion.
People leave.
Inexperience, unfamiliarity in roles can create anxiety.
The feeling of uncertainty pervades the whole organisation.
Leading people through such times may be stressful and/or rewarding.
And whilst it may feel getting through the period of change or time of uncertainty is overwhelming or insurmountable, putting yourself first will enable you to better support the people around you and those you lead.
I’ve highlighted some key areas to consider and focus on
1. Emotional awareness – of how you are feeling at any given moment, and how others might be feeling. Through understanding how you are reacting to everything going on around you and being able to recognise how others are coping, your awareness can help guide you in supporting others through the period of change and uncertainty
2. Wellbeing – looking after yourself and having ways to release and let go of the pressure and stress of each day will help you cope with what you are dealing with, and supporting others.
3. Resilience – a part of which relies on your wellbeing, and also on your ability to learn from perceived setbacks and failures, to continue to move forward positively.
4. Being present – in the moment. With so much going on, it can be easy to lose sight of what’s happening in the here and now, what people are saying and how they are behaving. Uncertainty can lead to a focus on the never-ending what if scenarios, and whilst emphasis towards the future is vital, attention to the in-the-moment-present is also essential.
So if you’re currently leading your group, team, dept, organisation through a period of change or uncertainty, how are you doing in the 4 areas I’ve highlighted above?
What could you do more of?
What could you do differently?
What will help you put yourself first, so that you can more effectively lead others?
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