Young CEOs driven by passion to succeed tend to ignore their health, which may lead to serious mental and physical health conditions at a very young age. Recently, we have seen an uptick in incidents where the lives of young CEOs have been lost due to stress-induced ailments such as cardiac arrests. The impact of the loss of a young CEO is not just limited to the organization or family but the industry also loses a visionary leader who could have changed the lives of millions of people through an innovative mindset.
To address the larger problem, we have curated some tips for young CEOs to manage stress and live a healthy life:
Understanding stress at the leadership level
Being a CEO will always involve stress and high-pressure tasks. Challenges for young leaders include financial uncertainty, team dynamics, and pressure to meet high business expectations. Furthermore, they might place unrealistic expectations upon themselves, leaving little room for making mistakes and regulating their momentum. Regardless of whether you are a high-performing leader or not, ‘stress’ is a common experience for every individual who is driven—and it is important to normalize it and encourage proactive management strategies. Effective stress management techniques will help young CEOs enhance their resilience and maintain focus on long-term goals.
1. Prioritise self-care
Regular breaks: Taking regular breaks during your workday is important to keep your mind clear and focused. Studies show that short breaks every 90 minutes can significantly enhance your focus, creativity, and overall productivity. These little mental refreshers allow your brain to recharge, leading to improved cognitive function and reduced fatigue. By stepping away from your desk for just a few minutes, you can help prevent burnout and maintain higher-quality work.
Exercise and sleep: Physical health directly correlates with mental well-being. Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes most days, either jogging, doing yoga, or even walking briskly during lunch. Also, focus on restorative sleep around 7-8 hours each night to improve your brain function, emotional control, and resilience to stressors.
2. Mindfulness and meditation
Mindfulness practices can be integrated into your daily routine to reduce stress. Mindfulness meditation promotes a present-focused consciousness that can help alleviate any anxiety about future challenges. The best way to start is with five minutes first thing in the morning in which you focus on breathing or guided meditation through apps. By doing so, you may find that this practice enhances your ability to perform well under pressure.
3. Set boundaries
Establishing boundaries at work is important to avoid getting too worked up. Communicate your availability to your team and let them know when you'll be reachable and when you won't be. Do not open up your emails or take calls when you have personal time to protect your mental space. This practice not only recharges you but also sets a healthy precedent for your team.
4. Consider online counseling
Young CEOs should consider the benefits of online counseling services to manage stress effectively. These platforms offer a convenient and accessible way for leaders to discuss their challenges with trained mental health professionals. Engaging in online therapy can lead to improved emotional well-being, the development of healthier coping strategies, and ultimately a more balanced personal and professional life. This approach provides immediate support and fosters long-term resilience, empowering CEOs to navigate the pressures of leadership with greater confidence and clarity.
5. Utilise stress mastery techniques
Implement multiple stress-relief techniques within your daily routine to better control immediate feelings of stress. Techniques such as deep breathing exercises or progressive muscle relaxation are simple yet powerful tools that can be done anywhere, whether at your desk during a busy day or at home after hours, to provide quick relief during high-pressure moments.
Besides that, listening to uplifting music or doing light stretching exercises at break time can relieve tension and promote a generally good mood at work throughout the day. Try several approaches to determine what suits you best with repetition, these skills will add up to strengthen your stress response.
By prioritising self-care, practicing mindfulness, setting realistic goals, building supportive networks, embracing creativity, and fostering gratitude, young leaders can navigate the tumultuous waters of entrepreneurship with resilience and poise. Access to professional support through online platforms allows flexible scheduling and personalized guidance, empowering young CEOs to address their challenges proactively.
