Loneliness is an epidemic.
Each and every one of us has intimately experienced loneliness. Did you know, though, that studies show that loneliness can quite literally be deadly? Just recently, the U.S. Surgeon General announced that loneliness poses health risks just as deadly as smoking up to 15 cigarettes per day.
Leaders have a unique perspective on loneliness. There is the weight of knowing that your decisions have far-reaching consequences to the lives of so many. There is the struggle to navigate the power dynamic and build lasting, trusting friendships. There is a specific and unrelenting pressure in today’s corporate landscape to appear cool, collected, and unaffected. Unfortunately, this is unsustainable and unhealthy. The concept of the bulletproof leader hinders a sense of community, performance, and effectiveness.
It is important to develop skills to cope with loneliness. You may feel like there is simply nothing to be done; that the corporate landscape is what it is. One of the best tactics is building a team of advisors. Individuals you trust and who trust you, and who have your back without being “yes” people. And yes, executive coaches are perfect for this type of team. We are here for you to discuss and process fears and anxieties, to bounce ideas off of, to push you to be your best, and to remind you of your strengths.
At the end of the day, humans are social creatures. The solution to loneliness is clearly building communities or “hives,” both professionally and personally. Reach out for the support you seek. I look forward to hearing from you.
Best,
Michael
