Navigating Leadership Anxiety: Overcoming FOMO in the Workplace
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The Fear All Leaders Face
As the lights dim at night, it's essential to recognize that feelings of fear are universal among leaders.
In my earlier piece, "A Leader's Principal Role: Taking Care of People," I delved into the demanding obligation of leadership and provided concrete examples of how leaders prioritize their teams. However, it begs the question: who is looking out for us?
There's a well-known saying that emphasizes the isolation of leadership: "It's lonely at the top." As a leader, you might find yourself excluded from casual conversations in the break room, left out of gift card rotations for birthdays, or not invited to social gatherings on weekends. This sense of exclusion often stems from a pervasive fear of missing out, commonly referred to as FOMO.
While FOMO is frequently associated with social media, I believe its implications extend much further and can significantly impact leaders in their daily experiences. FOMO manifests as the anxiety that an exciting event is happening without our participation, leading to feelings of sadness or inadequacy.
A typical response from leaders might be to adopt a mindset of superiority or to resign themselves to the notion that they must make sacrifices in life. However, I question whether this perspective is truly beneficial, as it carries a negative connotation that can ripple through various facets of life.
Instead, consider embracing a "I get to" mentality. For instance, think about how you get to manage payroll, oversee scheduling, make strategic business decisions, allocate budgets, and focus on the well-being of your patients. This positive reframing fosters a sense of privilege rather than loss, ultimately influencing your overall attitude toward life.
Furthermore, it's crucial to remember that you are not alone in these feelings. Leaders across various sectors experience moments when FOMO creeps in. The good that leaders contribute to the world serves as reassurance that we are on the right track, making the right choices while letting go of the unhelpful.
In essence, FOMO can serve as a signpost indicating that you are indeed progressing in your leadership journey. So, continue your excellent work; you are not alone in this.
PS: For those interested in connecting with fellow leaders, consider joining the Layered Leaders discussion group here.
Jason is a pharmacist and pharmacy owner in Ontario, Canada. He operates a leadership and wellness platform at layeredleadership.ca. In addition to his professional endeavors, he is a triathlete, a father, and a youth hockey coach.
For consulting or coaching inquiries, please reach out to [email protected]
Section 1.1 Understanding FOMO in Leadership
FOMO can deeply affect leaders, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. The recognition of this phenomenon is crucial for fostering a supportive leadership environment.
The video titled "What Good Leaders Do When They Get Scared" offers insight into how effective leaders confront their fears and uncertainties.
Section 1.2 Reframing Leadership Mindset
Adopting a positive perspective can transform how leaders experience their roles. Instead of viewing responsibilities as burdens, reframing them as privileges can enhance overall morale.
The video "Fear vs. Respect: The Two Faces of Leadership" explores the dynamics between fear and respect in leadership, emphasizing the importance of fostering a healthy team environment.
Chapter 2 Title
In this chapter, we will explore actionable strategies for leaders to combat feelings of FOMO and enhance their mental well-being.