It’s been said that it’s lonely at the top.
While this sentiment is often true for many leaders, John Maxwell states in his book Leadership Gold that “If it’s lonely at the top, you’re not doing something right.”
Why does he say that? Because loneliness is mostly a choice we make.
Yes, it’s wise to have some level of professional boundaries, but if you’re not careful, you can alienate yourself from others in an unhealthy manner. This will create a negative work environment that will hinder great team work and the ability to accomplish great things together.
One way to address loneliness is to find a community of like-minded leaders whom you can confide in and learn from outside your organization.
Find a community of fellow leaders who deal with similar challenges and understand what you’re navigating at any given moment.
Develop a support system for one another.
Inside your organization, develop a leadership team that is trustworthy and demonstrates the values that you desire for yourself and your company.
While it’s valuable and wise to have an outside community, seek to build a trusting community with your key leaders as well. They need support just as much as you do.
Loneliness is a choice. Whether you find support inside or outside your organization, make it a priority.
Leadership is challenging enough as it is. Don’t compound the challenges by being a “lone ranger” leader.
We all need community. We weren’t meant to do life or leadership alone.
What’s your next step?
Take action today to either engage with a supportive leadership community or work to take the one you’re in to the next level.
Until next time…make today GREAT!
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