Don’t give up on yourself.

It’s a tough time to be a leader.  Pressure is coming at you from all angles.  You’re dealing with a highly complex communication environment, a workforce that’s hard to keep motivated and satisfied, a competitive landscape that is changing by the minute, and insatiable investor demands for immediate and ever-increasing returns.  No doubt, it can be daunting.

You might be thinking, maybe I’m not the right person for this job.  In fact, you’d be surprised how many leaders have dark moments of self-doubt.  As a leader, you know you must project confidence and conviction so you can inspire them in others.  But still, that nagging fear creeps into your psyche every now and then.

Before you throw in the towel, remember that you are in this position for a reason, and that people are counting on you to persevere in the tough times.  Your grit will set an example for others to follow.  Stay true to your deepest beliefs and the course you have set.  And, if you feel you need additional support, seek the advice of people you respect and consider engaging a coach.

You might be thinking, “No one taught me how to do this!”  And if you’re in the majority, you’re right.  But that doesn’t mean you don’t have the right stuff to succeed as a leader.

Read More