Over the past few years I have become interested in the work of Brene Brown, a researcher and author, most known for her work on vulnerability and courage. In her most recent book, Atlas of the Heart, she digs into the realm of emotions. There she explores and describes the experiences that, in her words, “Define what it means to be human.” Over the next few months, I will share with you some of Brown’s work on emotions, specifically in relationship to leadership and our ability to lead from a place of health.
So, let’s begin with uncertainty, a part of life we can’t escape.
According to Brown’s research, the emotions that threaten to slow us down when we experience uncertainty are stress, anxiety, worry, excitement, dread, fear, and vulnerability. In times of uncertainty we might also experience being overwhelmed or have a desire to avoid. As leaders eager to make a positive impact, we can glean several insights from Brown’s research.
First, let’s give ourselves a break.
Emotional responses to uncertainty are entirely natural and a part of the human experience. We don’t need to be self-critical. Acknowledging—even embracing— these responses as part of being human is essential.
It’s also important to remember and recognize that our team members and colleagues have these same natural human responses, even though they may experience different emotions to the same situation. You may feel anxious at the prospect of speaking in front of a large group of people. However, another person may feel a combination of stress and excitement as they prepare to speak.
Recognizing that others also are grappling with emotional responses can result in more compassionate leadership on our part.
Second, let’s have compassion for ourselves and others in the midst of uncertainty.
Understand and respect emotions—our own and those of our colleagues. We can even befriend the emotions and extend hospitality to them. We can thank emotions for signaling to us that we need to make adjustments.
Emotions also signal that it may be time to step back and refrain from making major decisions.
Many of the emotions we experience during uncertainty stem from our perception of our ability to handle these challenging situations. Our perception, however, may be different from reality. We may need to evaluate the emotions driving our responses.
Maybe you’re overwhelmed about how to do the necessary and immediate work AND develop a plan for your organization’s growth. This could be a great time to engage a coach.
A coach who asks good reflective questions can help us discover why the emotions are showing up and what may actually be driving our thinking. Sometimes just a conversation partner, like a coach, can help us hear what we were missing on our own.
Finally, a significant takeaway from Brown’s book is that giving ourselves a break and having compassion are expressions of vulnerability. And vulnerability is not weakness. It is a pillar of courageous leadership.
How do you respond when you face uncertainty? A coach can be a helpful resource in navigating the emotions you encounter and moving passed them.