Pressure is a Privilege

There’s a reason why athletes, artists, and leaders alike talk about “thriving under pressure.” Pressure, like a sculptor's chisel, carves away our rough edges and shapes us into something new. But here’s the twist: pressure is not just about enduring discomfort; it's about choosing to see it as a privilege. For those of us in leadership, pressure can become the tool that refines our purpose, sharpens our vision, and strengthens our resolve.

But only if we let it

Consider the humble piece of coal. Under immense heat and pressure, it doesn’t crack or crumble – it transforms. It becomes a diamond. Similarly, our muscles only grow stronger through the strain of weight-bearing. The same pressure that initially feels like a test of endurance is the very thing that allows growth. Nature gives us these reminders every day. Pressure, it turns out, is a part of all meaningful growth.

In leadership, we often face challenges that ask us to stretch beyond what’s comfortable. It’s tempting to retreat, avoid, or numb ourselves to the discomfort of the weight pressing down on us. But every time we avoid the squeeze, we lose an opportunity to grow, to rise stronger, and to become the role models we need to be. Pressure becomes a privilege when we see it as a doorway to learning rather than a wall to build or avoid.?

As Leaders, we can learn to embrace the discomfort of challenge as a space to grow. That meeting where you had to defend a decision, the tough conversation you were dreading with a teammate, or the impossible timeline you had to meet – each of these pressures is an invitation to improve, to learn, and to strengthen our leadership muscles.

So, how can we change our perspective on pressure?

1. See Pressure as Growth: Shift from asking, “Why is this happening to me?” to “What is this asking of me?” This reframes pressure from something imposed on us to something we can learn from. Just as a piece of pottery takes shape under a potter’s hand, leadership is shaped under the pressure of responsibility and the desire to serve well. Pressure, then, becomes an ally – it’s what helps us rise to becoming better.

2. Build Resilience through Reflection: After every challenge, take time to reflect and recharge. What did you learn? What strengths emerged that you didn’t realize you had? Reflection turns pressure into wisdom, helping you get through tough times AND come out wiser and better equipped for the next round. When we get comfortable with discomfort, we find ourselves less afraid to face the next pressure point.

3. Remember the Responsibility of the Role: The essence of leadership is to set direction, take others with us, and do the right thing - even when it’s hard (or no one is looking). ? To lead well, and to be a role model, means embracing the pressure that comes with it. We’re not just here to make it through the day; we’re here to inspire, to bring out the best in others, and to carve out a path that others willingly want to follow.?

Pressure is not an enemy but a gift. For those willing to lean in, to embrace it;? it becomes the very thing that forges a stronger, wiser, and more capable leader. So the next time you feel the weight, remember: diamonds aren’t born without it. Give yourself permission to show up, speak up and shine. ?

If not you, then who? ?

We need strong leaders everywhere, more than ever.??