It will come as no surprise to hear that the effects of the pandemic are still reverberating through our society. For those of you who navigated it as a business leader, it was particularly stressful.
Do pandemic lockdowns feel like a nightmare you’re still grappling with? Are you struggling to handle the aftermath of the pandemic?
You’re not the only one.
The good news is, that there are things you can do to manage your post-pandemic stress…
Particular Pandemic Pressures on Business Leaders
The stress and strain of the pandemic took a toll on everyone, but for you, the boss of your own company, the pressure was acutely intense. Holding down the fort while being ambushed from all sides felt like being in the midst of a relentless storm.
You had to keep your business afloat as the pandemic raged. Unfortunately, there may not have been enough life jackets for everyone, and valuable staff might have been let go. It probably seemed like wave after wave crashed down on you as work slowed or was canceled, and maybe investors retracted while staff struggled.
Despite the chaos, you learned to motivate your team better than Tony Robbins and put on a brave face that even Bear Grylls would be proud of. You certainly earned your place as the leader of your company. You made it through, but not without some serious storm damage to your business and personal life.
The Impact on Leaders’ Mental Health & Wellbeing
The pandemic was traumatic, causing serious health problems such as post-traumatic stress. Are you still picking up the pieces? Are you suffering from stress? It's common for leaders to prefer handling things alone rather than asking for help, but recognizing the signs of stress is crucial.
Re-experiencing
Do you relive aspects of the pandemic over and over again? Nightmares, flashbacks, repetitive images, or physical sensations like impromptu sweating, nausea, and trembling are common. Constant negative thoughts and a sense of guilt about the decisions made during lockdowns could indicate post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This might be a scary realization, but you're not alone, and it's widespread. Knowing what's happening is the first step to addressing it.
Hyperarousal
Do you feel on edge most of the time and find it difficult to relax, even during your time off? Hyperarousal can lead to physical problems like headaches, dizziness, chest pains, and stomach aches. The good news is, there are many ways to relieve stress and overcome chronic stress. At The Lonely Seat, we’re dedicated to helping you get back your mojo and return to the top of your game.
Avoidance & Emotional Numbing
Have you tried to bury your head in the sand about the pressures of the pandemic? Do you avoid talking about stress and strain, or have you given up activities you used to enjoy? This can lead to isolation and, in the long term, self-destructive behaviors. You haven't come this far to begin self-sabotaging. Let's explore what you can do to manage your post-pandemic stress and strain.
What Can You Do?
Firstly, recognize the impact the pandemic had on your life. It was a significant event, and it's okay to still be affected by it. Acknowledge that it's alright not to have it all together all the time. Here are three effective ways to start rebuilding your mental capacity:
Talk About It
Opening up about your experience can have a hugely positive effect on your outlook. Talk to other business leaders about what you all went through during the pandemic. You'll soon realize you're not alone. You can support and validate each other and simply offload all that went down. This can lead to feeling lighter, reassured, and forging great connections with people who understand your situation. Together, you can develop new business solutions and strategies for leadership skills development.
Take a Break
Take more breaks! Whether it’s a coffee away from your office, a walk in the park, or a week-long holiday, stepping away from work can help you reset. Incorporate reminders to get outside and away from your work environment. Regular holidays can provide a pause from the pressures of running your business. Spend quality time with family and friends to find a balance between work and play. This is essential for effective leadership development.
Regulate Your Nervous System
After a stressful period, it’s vital to engage in activities that help your nervous system settle. This can include breathing techniques, meditation, singing, or even cold showers. Relaxation activities like yoga or hiking can significantly ease tension and hyperarousal, helping you feel more like yourself. Finding what makes you happy and doing it regularly is crucial for leadership skills development and maintaining a positive mindset.
In Good Company
If you’re struggling with post-pandemic stress and strain, know that you are not alone. The pandemic was a tumultuous time, especially for business leaders who had to navigate unprecedented challenges. The experience underscored the importance of self-care and focusing on what truly matters—connection, time, and joy.
As life and business return to habits, remember to give yourself what you need to continue being the brilliant boss you are. Want to connect with other business leaders? Sign up for our newsletter to stay connected and share your experiences.
By focusing on leadership development, finding business solutions, and enhancing your leadership skills development, you can move forward with resilience and strength.
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