The Wayfarer by Gun.io. April 12th, 2024.

For the last few weeks, my leadership team has been working with me to identify ways we can boost efficiency in individual departments while staying lean. Uncovering what that looks like is, I’m sure, a challenge that we all face. Can we unlock that elusive “do more with less” and make sure that our teams aren’t burning the candle at both ends or feeling pressured?

Knowing what we know about the importance of keeping teams satisfied (including what I wrote about just a couple of weeks ago regarding well-being), I think it’s imperative that we lead by example. Yes, the drive for founders to burn the midnight oil might be high, given the personal stake in the company’s success. On the other hand, can you be an effective leader if you’re not nourishing yourself with things outside of the office? Understanding how to find the balance between hustle and happiness, and truly living that way, shows your team that you value them as humans, not just employees.

I know this all sounds sort of obvious, but bear with me. Mounting anxiety about more layoffs (despite the data that shows this year is going better than the last one) is pushing many of us to work harder, but not necessarily smarter, under the guise that it will lead to success. Our teams are exploring new tools for organization and automation, opening pathways for transparency that allow for easier collaboration and completion, and maximizing the time they spend on work so they can fill their cups with the other important things in life.

Using the resources we have and taking cues from people like you will continue to help us navigate these always-changing waters. The truth is that our pathways to a healthy balance all look different, but finding that balance with your team is a journey worth taking.

Best,

Teja

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