Leading Through the Storm: Why Self-Care is Non-Negotiable During Times of Upending Change
As an executive coach, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside leaders during some of the most turbulent chapters of their careers — industry disruptions, leadership transitions, efforts to scale rapidly and economic chaos. One pattern is unmistakable: those who thrive (not just survive) through tremendous change share one common commitment — intentional self-care.
It can feel almost counterintuitive. When the pressure is mounting, and change is accelerating, the last thing many leaders think they “have time for” is themselves. In my experience, that’s precisely when self-care becomes not just important, but mission critical.
Consider these 4 reasons why:
1. Self-care preserves our decision-making clarity.
Stress clouds judgment. Exhaustion narrows our focus to immediate fires rather than strategic opportunities. Leaders who intentionally prioritize their physical, emotional, and mental well-being can access a broader perspective, make better decisions, and spot opportunities others miss.
When our nervous system is regulated — through sleep, movement, mindful breaks, and nutrition — we lead with discernment instead of reactivity. We respond instead of reacting.
2. We model resilience for our teams.
Leadership isn’t just about results; it’s about relationships. How we navigate change sets the emotional temperature for our entire organization. If we visibly burn out, panic, or become inaccessible, our teams will mirror that energy.
Conversely, when they see us setting boundaries, protecting our energy, and leading with presence, we give them permission to do the same. We don’t just model performance — we model sustainable performance.
3. Self-care is an act of strategic preparation.
A great leader once said, “Leadership is about having the energy for the second half of the race.” In times of rapid change, the demand curve isn’t linear; it’s exponential. What feels like the peak today could be the warm-up for tomorrow.
Investing in self-care isn’t indulgent. It’s preparing ourselves to endure the marathon ahead — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
4. It reconnects us with our deeper purpose.
Change can be disorienting. Amid shifting priorities and swirling uncertainty, it’s easy to lose touch with the “why” that first inspired us to lead. Practices like reflection, journaling, coaching conversations, and even simple pauses in our day create space to reconnect with our mission — and lead from it.
Purpose-driven leaders inspire loyalty, innovation, and trust, even (especially) when the ground feels shaky.
How about these starting points?
- Micro-practices: 2-minute breathing resets between meetings.
- Clear boundaries: Set a hard stop time for work — and honor it.
- Daily reflection: Asking ourselves, “What do we need most today to show up at our best?”
- Well-being accountability: Engage a coach, peer, or mentor to hold us to our self-care commitments.
In times of tremendous change, self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s self-leadership. It’s the commitment to lead others from a place of wholeness rather than depletion.
And here’s the secret: the more change around us, the more important the stillness within us.
Let’s commit to taking care of ourselves. Not someday — but today. Our leadership, our teams, and our mission depends on it.
Are you feeling the pressure of leading amid constant change and uncertainty? Are you responsible for a team that is feeling that same pressure, and you would value an external partner? Let’s Chat! I regularly coach and advise executives and organizations navigating chaotic times.