Organizations continue to works towards flatter and self-managed systems where each individual is a self-actualized person. But for some reason, some known and some unknown the persona of the CEO continues to maintain a certain power. People hold the CEO to a super-human standard.
As people, we place high expectations on roles and the CEO is no exception.
Unfortunately, this makes the CEO positions susceptible to fear. Fear can be perceived as weaknesses by others so, in response, many leaders hold on to the mantra of, “Don’t admit to it. Don’t dwell on it. I am the boss and everyone relies on me.”
Taking A Deep Breath
If you’re a CEO, or a leader, feeling the weight of expectations, feeling fear of underperforming, here’s how to humanize yourself while still living up to your responsibilities:
Think of a key moment when your innate strengths and abilities shone through, or when you persisted and overcame adversity.
Imagine this memory as a chapter in the story of what brought you to where you are today, and consider what insights into your values does this chapter represents?
Take a few minutes and write this down.
Now write a future-oriented story that tells the tale of who you are as a leader. What strengths are you known for? What weaknesses do you see, and how will you rely on others for support?
Growing The Brand
Spend time with a close advisor and share your story with them. Let a few good people into your circle of trust…even the strongest of us need good people to help us grow.
Create a public version of your story and be sure it is added to your biography, your social media profiles, and also during your speaking engagements share the core values that make you a leader.
And most importantly when you are acting as a mentor to others, encourage them to follow these same practices of taking ownership of their brand story, so that they, too, can be a person who leads themselves and others without undue fear.
Onward!