Passionate Leadership - Managing The Heartbreak of Being All In
2 min read
Yesterday, I had an eye-opening conversation with a colleague who was struggling with her mental health. She opened up about her disappointment in her current role and how it seeped into her home life. She is an EXCEPTIONAL leader who invests her heart in her job and embodies the passion that drives us all. We both realized that so many women—and employees in general—experience these feelings and should talk about them more openly.
It hit me hard: when you're all in for your job, pouring your heart and soul into it, the heartbreak can be even more profound when things don’t go as planned. We often hear the mantra, “Do what you love.” But here's the thing: jobs don’t operate like a marriage. They don’t always share the same priorities, understanding, or commitment as long-term relationships do. Being truly passionate about your job can feel like a double-edged sword. I’ve experienced this firsthand, and it’s tough to reconcile that deep commitment with the inevitable setbacks we all face.
We found solace in knowing that disappointment often accompanies our passion and that it’s okay to feel this way. We questioned our emotional intelligence in navigating these feelings, but we never doubted our commitment to our teams and the value we bring to our work. There just has to be a better way than simply setting boundaries around your work; we need to embrace our emotions and find ways to navigate them.
Tips for Bouncing Back After Setbacks
Here are some tips I’ve found helpful for bouncing back after setbacks:
Seek Support: Talking it out can be incredibly cathartic. After my conversation, my colleague and I felt an immense relief, realizing we weren't alone in our struggles. Sometimes, just knowing others share your feelings can lighten the load.
Practice Self-Care: Engaging in activities that nurture you can make a significant difference. Personally, I always feel better after a run or simply getting some fresh air. It’s amazing how much a little movement can uplift your spirits.
Reframe Your Mindset: Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, see them as learning opportunities. Reflect on what you can take away from the experience to grow stronger and more resilient.
Set Realistic Goals: When faced with disappointment, it can be helpful to break down your ambitions into achievable steps. This can provide direction and help you regain a sense of control.
Embrace Your Emotions: Allow yourself to feel the disappointment, but don’t let it define you. Emotions are part of being passionate; acknowledging them can lead to growth and self-awareness.
Let’s embrace our emotions and acknowledge that feeling deeply is part of what makes us effective and resilient leaders. How do you bounce back from setbacks? I’d love to hear your strategies!
#Leadership #Resilience #CareerGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #MentalHealthAwareness #Passion