How to deal with stress in a leading position as a woman

In Russia, a woman leader is not uncommon. By the number of women in key positions (47%), our country in advanced positions. However, for many of them, a career is not only a method of self -realization, but also a source of permanent stress. Including because of the need to prove that we can lead no worse than men. How to remain a leader and prevent emotional burnout?

Stress makes us vulnerable – including professional. We can feel disappointed, exhausted and splash out emotions on others, although, as a leader, we must inspire subordinates and remain an example to follow.

Nervous overstrain leads to emotional breakdowns and often – to a complete loss of interest in the career. According to the Network of Executive Women, women are twice as often as men from high posts. It is chronic stress that respondents call one of the most common reasons why they decide to say goodbye to once their favorite work.

Do not wait for the moment when work for wear will lead to professional burnout. There are many ways to weaken the effect of stress.

1. Learn to distinguish “good” stress from “bad”

In the book “The Reverse Party of Stress”, the American psychologist and lecturer of Stanford University Kelly McGonigal claims that not all stress is bad for the body. Positive (it is called “eustress”), “stress with a happy ending” can be associated with new interesting tasks,

opportunities for growth and development, emotional return of subordinates.

But even he can turn out to be a serious problem if you experience overstrain for too long. Therefore, even if you are happy in your place, make sure that the periods of active involvement in work activities are replaced by rest, and professional challenges do not become an end in itself.

2. More often say no “no”

It has long been known that women are better developed by the ability to empathize, so they often put the needs of other people (for example, husband or child) above their. This feature helps women leaders draw out of difficult situations not only of individual employees, but also a whole business. Studies prove that women more often than men are entrusted with management of companies whose affairs fell into decay.

But empathy may be a dangerous quality: attempts to help everyone around usually end with stress, overstrain and a sense of powerlessness. Therefore, it is worth carefully planning your schedule and learning not to be distracted by each arising task – many of them need to be abandoned without regret.

3. Highlight time for yourself

It is possible to fully engage in work affairs only if you yourself are in a clear mind and a good mood (not to mention a healthy body). YouTube General Director Susan Vojitsky recommends that the pause be built in his daily schedule when you will be exclusively engaged in yourself. This is as important as meetings and meetings. At this time, you can go to the massage, fitness, prauden or just sit in silence to “reload” the brain.

4.Participate in programs for the development of women in your company

You can cope with stress not only individually, but also at the general core. In modern companies, initiatives appear to help women build a career and give them the opportunity to more effectively cope with different social roles.

For example, the Heart Led Women program has been developed in KFC aimed at developing leadership qualities. Employees of the company participate in volunteer projects, become mentors and mentors for wards from orphanages, conduct seminars and master classes. Volunteers learn to motivate others and develop their emotional intelligence – and therefore stress resistance.