The Unsung Hero of Leadership

Just recently in 2023, the organisation Calm (a mental health company based in US) found that 69% of employed Americans reported their mental health as staying the same or worse than the year before. Although there are no similar studies found in Singapore, the National Population Health Survey 2022 showed the prevalence of poor mental health increasing from 13.4% in 2020 to 17% in 2022.

As people in the workplace, the modern leader is often portrayed as a bastion of strength, resilience and unwavering determination. While these qualities are undeniably essential for success in any endeavour, they can also mask a silent struggle which is that of mental health. The pressure to perform, the weight of responsibility and the relentless pace of the business world can take a toll on even the most seasoned leaders.

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Therefore, it is time to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health in leadership. A leader's well-being is not a personal issue but a critical and crucial organisational asset. Research consistently reveals and demonstrates a correlation between strong mental health and effective leadership. Leaders with high emotional intelligence, resilience, and self-awareness are better equipped to make sound decisions, foster innovation and build high-performing teams.

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However, the journey to prioritising mental health is not without its challenges. Often, leaders feel the pressure and the need to appear infallible because they fear that vulnerability may undermine their authority. This is especially true among our Asian culture. This perception must shift. Authentic leadership stems from a place of honesty and transparency which must include acknowledging the challenges faced.

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To cultivate a mentally resilient leadership culture, organizations must prioritize mental health support, encourage open conversations, and provide resources for leaders to seek help when needed. By breaking down the stigma and fostering a culture of well-being, we can empower leaders to reach their full potential and drive organizational success.

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As the renowned author of 'Emotional Intelligence', Daniel Goleman, stated, "Leadership is about understanding and managing people. This requires a deep awareness of one's own emotions and the ability to understand and influence the emotions of others." This emotional intelligence is the cornerstone of mental well-being and effective leadership.

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It is time to redefine leadership success. Let us move beyond metrics and titles but rather, start to prioritise the mental health of our leaders and the people at work. By doing so, we invest in the future of our organisations and the well-being of our society.