mebeing
When people discuss leadership, rarely anyone talks about its effects. These effects are quite real because the higher you go; the fewer friends are left with you at work. The effects of these changes affect your sense of belonging, well-being, and emotional security in the workplace. It takes your mind into a state of loneliness which can be hazardous to your health. Embracing your role as a leader along with combating the isolation is not at all easy. You need to have a sense of safety and camaraderie at the place where you work.
Following are the strategies that can help you deal with isolation when you reach the top:
Break out of your peer group:
When you experience the isolation within your peer group, then look around your organization and look who else is working at your level. You will be surprised to see that there will be many others like you who will be facing the same situation. You can get a good start here and can leverage each other’s experiences.
Think of people you admire:
This is the time when you need to look towards someone who can give you a boost. This of a professional you admire and seek them out. Do not ask for an advice at once when you meet them. Instead, tell them how much you appreciate their success. Cultivate a connection between yourself and your mentor and then it will help you to slowly expand your horizons and to gain a greater perspective.
Connect with like-minded people:
No matter what level you have reached, you need a team of trusted advisers. These are the people who will help you when it comes to making bigger decisions. Select a few people whom you consider are knowledgeable and trustworthy. You will be happy to see that they will also be facing the same issues and they will be excited to join you.
Make new friends:
When you are at a leadership post, you often stay disconnected with your friends which lead to isolation. Do not become a drone of work and join a club, get on a sports team, or volunteer at a charity to stay connected with people. Do not hesitate to make new friends as it will broaden your horizon.
Read more:
Feeling a sense of isolation for leading as a supervisor is common among people who work as leaders. Therefore, read about the experiences of other leaders through books. It will help you stay motivated and will give you a sense of companionship with history’s successful leaders.
Organize extracurricular activities among your team:
Going on the top does not mean that you completely break your relationship with your group. Stay connected to them by organizing events which you know everyone loves. Doing thing outside your working environment will help you deepen the bond of trust with your friends and colleagues.
