The Leadership Skill You're Probably Overlooking

The most resilient leaders make this a daily practice

Leadership today is hard. Leaders are facing unprecedented levels of change, disruption, and polarization. Studies show that over half of leaders report feeling burned out—a number that continues to rise as challenges grow more complex. In a world where constant change is the only constant, resilience is essential—but so is grace.

As leaders, we often feel the pressure to “push through” and be the unwavering support system for our teams. Last week, we explored the importance of steady leadership. Resilience provides that steady hand, but it relies on knowing when to pause, reset, and renew—with self-compassion guiding the process. This practice allows us to show up fully, without depleting ourselves along the way.

Giving ourselves grace isn’t a luxury; it’s essential to resilient leadership. Here’s how you can practice self-compassion to sustain both your energy and effectiveness.

Four Ways Leaders Practice Self-Compassion

In senior roles, leaders often feel the need to have all the answers, but self-compassion means recognizing that support is essential to resilience. Here are four ways to cultivate self-compassion through meaningful connection—with yourself and others—in your leadership practice.

  1. Create Space for Self-Reflection
    In high-pressure times, it’s easy to become reactive and caught up in the noise. Self-compassion calls us to pause and check in with ourselves. Whether through journaling, meditative breathing, or taking a brief walk, this practice builds resilience by fostering clarity and reducing self-criticism. Reflective leadership allows you to process challenges with calm, ultimately modeling thoughtful leadership for your team.

  2. Embrace Support as a Strength, Not a Weakness
    Resilient leaders understand that asking for help doesn’t diminish their authority; it strengthens it. Whether it’s consulting a peer, leaning on a trusted mentor, or being transparent with your team when you need extra input, this openness reinforces trust and respect. Modeling the willingness to ask for support normalizes interdependence, showing that resilience is a team effort, not a solo endeavor.

  3. Leverage Your Network for Perspective and Renewal
    Your professional network is a vital resource not only for ideas but for emotional support and perspective. Lean on trusted advisors who can offer guidance or simply listen. Resilience sometimes means stepping back to gain perspective from those outside your immediate situation, helping you reframe problems and renew your approach. These connections remind you that you don’t have to navigate every challenge alone.

  4. Be Honest with Your Team About Boundaries
    Resilient leaders know when to be transparent about their own limits. Letting your team know when you’re taking time to reflect or recalibrate sets a healthy example of balance. Leaders who communicate their needs foster an environment where others feel safe to do the same. This mutual respect strengthens the team and builds a culture of resilience where everyone feels empowered to bring their best.

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