Working It
Why being a CEO is so lonely (and how to fix that)
Jan 21, 2025
Allan Barton, a former managing director with extensive experience in waste disposal and engineering consultancy, shares his insights on the isolation that often accompanies leadership. He discusses the challenges of forming genuine work relationships and the conflict between public persona and authenticity. Barton highlights the importance of support systems, akin to sports coaching, for emotional resilience. He also addresses the need for balancing personal well-being with professional responsibilities, emphasizing the evolution of leadership towards collaboration.
15:03
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Quick takeaways
- CEOs often experience profound loneliness due to the complexities of leadership and changing relationships within their organizations.
- Having external support from coaches or peer networks is vital for leaders to manage their mental health and cultivate resilience.
Deep dives
The Loneliness of Leadership
Leadership at the highest levels often comes with significant loneliness. As decision-makers, CEOs bear full responsibility for their organizations, which can create a disconnect with colleagues who may fear them or feel the pressure of performance expectations. People in high positions may find it challenging to trust their peers, as former friends may become subordinates, complicating relationships and decision-making processes. The realization that they are essentially isolated in their roles can be a daunting aspect of climbing the corporate ladder.
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