Under Pressure?

10 Strategies for Leaders

“Pressure is a privilege — it only comes to those who earn it.” – Billie Jean King

Leaders everywhere are navigating intense challenges, and as a leader managing significant change in our Consulting business, I feel that pressure acutely. I’d like to share some strategies I’ve found helpful in managing it:

1. Identify the source: Is the pressure self-imposed; perceived expectations; or is it due to unclear or unrealistic demands from others? Problem clarity leads to solution clarity...
2. Vocalise: If it’s perceived pressure, have an open conversation. Present your plan, and the response is likely to be more positive than expected. If not, move to #3…
3. Find the overlap: Often, undue pressure comes from someone else’s burden. A solution might be an open chat centred on their needs. Offer what you can support, and you’ll likely find mutual relief.
4. Be clear about direction: Self-imposed pressure is just as tough. This is where my situation comes in.? For us, clarity came through co-designing a strategy as a team. Knowing where we’re headed has dialled the pressure back.
5. Break it down: Big challenges can be overwhelming. We use Agile to break tasks into manageable pieces with transparent priorities.? The transparency and pace of #Agile, really helps build momentum.
6. Don’t be a hero: You don’t need all the answers. Seek skills and support. Most likely you’ll find them in your network but there are always friendly consultancies with fresh thinking and loads of experience that can give you a little help… ??
7. Celebrate small wins: When you’re under constant pressure, it’s easy to get caught up in what’s left to do. Take time to acknowledge the progress you’ve made, however small.? At our regular team lunch this week, I intend to celebrate the recent completion of a client project in which Anna Schaetzle in our team did a fantastic job – with great feedback!
8. Seek new environments: Pressure builds like a Tetris screen.? The pieces keep coming in and you can’t get rid of them fast enough. I find putting myself in new environments slows that screen down. ??Joining Entrepreneurial Scotland did this for me recently - reinvigorating my thinking and energy and offering the chance to learn from loads of great people.? Thanks Sean McGrath and Lisa Ferguson for inviting me.
9. Write it down: Putting plans and challenges on paper crystallises thinking. It also makes sharing insights easier—like I’m doing here.
10. Give back: Offering support to others provides a fresh perspective on your own situation. This is one reason why I am keen to support any leaders navigating the pressure of their role – fancy a coffee?? I bet we can help each other but if I can’t, I’m surrounded by talented and knowledgeable people who can.

And one bonus (unapologetically preachy) suggestion: In a world full of pressure, remember to be kind. It makes a world of difference.

#aabconsulting #gettheimportantthingsdone