INT 151: How to Combat Loneliness as a Leader

Do you ever feel lonely as a leader? One consequence of being a leader in any profession is overcoming the difficulty of handling many responsibilities yourself. 

In this episode of Int-HER-rupt, host Linda Yates welcomes special guest Shatanese Reese, a leadership development coach, to discuss combating loneliness as a leader. While it may seem surprising that leaders can experience feelings of loneliness, Shatanese emphasizes the importance of addressing this issue and finding ways to overcome it. She shares her journey and provides insights into why leaders may feel lonely and how they can navigate this challenge.

Shatanese’s Background

• Shatanese begins by sharing her background as an HR professional with over 25 years of experience. 
• She describes her career progression, including talent acquisition, HR generalist, and diversity consultant roles. However, a life-altering event prompted her to reassess her calling and pursue an executive coach and facilitator career. 
• With her expertise in emotional intelligence and personality assessment, Shatanese provides valuable support to leaders who navigate the complexities of their roles.

The Difference Between Being Alone and Feeling Lonely

• Shatanese clarifies the difference between being alone and feeling lonely. 
• Being alone is a choice, a deliberate act of setting oneself apart for a period of time to recalibrate. On the other hand, feeling lonely is a longing for connection and support.
• Leaders often experience loneliness due to the weighty responsibilities they carry and their awareness of the organization's challenges. Finding trusted individuals with whom to share their feelings and burdens becomes difficult. 
• Factors such as unique identity and lack of representation can further intensify the feeling of loneliness.

Understanding the Loneliness of Leadership

• Shatanese explores the reasons why leaders may feel lonely. Their level of responsibility and fear of vulnerability can hinder their ability to express their true emotions. 
• Leaders may feel lonely when they lack a coach, internal champion, or sponsor who can guide them and offer support.
•  The loneliness of leadership is not confined to personal isolation but also a lack of clarity on the path forward. 
• Shatanese encourages leaders to identify their specific feelings associated with loneliness to address their unique challenges.

Tips for Combatting Loneliness

• To combat loneliness, Shatanese suggests several strategies for leaders. 
• First, she emphasizes the importance of finding a trusted confidant or mentor who can provide guidance and support. This person should be someone with whom leaders can be vulnerable and share their struggles openly. 
• Secondly, Shatanese highlights the value of building a network of fellow leaders who can relate to their experiences. This network can offer understanding, empathy, and a sense of camaraderie. 
• Lastly, she recommends participating in leadership development programs or coaching sessions that provide a safe space for leaders to discuss their experiences and gain insights from others.

In this episode of Int-HER-rupt podcast, Linda Yates and Shatanese Reese shed light on the often overlooked aspect of loneliness among leaders. Through their discussion, it becomes evident that leaders are not immune to feelings of isolation and longing for connection. 

Leaders can take proactive steps to combat loneliness by acknowledging and addressing these feelings. Whether it's finding a trusted confidant, building a network of like-minded individuals, or seeking professional support, leaders can navigate the challenges of their role more effectively. Shatanese's insights and experiences provide valuable guidance for leaders seeking to overcome this common yet rarely discussed issue.

"Whenever a leader expresses this is really, truly lonely work, I often like to unpack, what does that mean for you? What is it that you're actually feeling?" - Shatanese Reese

Resources

Shatanese Reese on LinkedIn

Shatanese Reese on Facebook

Shatanese Reese on Instagram

www.shatanesereese.com

If this episode connected with you, reach out to Linda and let her know. This podcast is produced by TSE Studios. Check out other podcasts by TSE Studios, including this episode’s sponsor, The Sales Evangelist, helping new and struggling sellers close more deals and achieve their sales goals. Subscribe to the IntHERrupt Podcast so you won’t miss a single show. Find us on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, and Stitcher. Audio created by Ryan Rasmussen Productions.