Effective parenting and leadership require a shift from over-functioning to empowering others. As children grow, they must learn to be self-sufficient; similarly, leaders should foster the development of their team rather than constantly saving the day. Over-functioning can lead to burnout and hinder the potential of others, masking the importance of collaborative success. Many individuals who are over-functioners may stem from difficult childhoods, resulting in hypervigilance and anxiety. While these traits can drive achievement, they can also create personal challenges and negatively impact relationships. Thus, it is crucial to recognize and balance the skills developed through past experiences, as they play a dual role in both success and emotional health.
What are some words you would use to describe a leader? Bold, driven, steadfast. How about … anxious? You may not equate leadership with anxiety, but Morra Aarons-Mele — a writer, podcaster, and self-proclaimed anxious achiever — says that’s a mistake. Because anxiety is not a professional defect or character flaw. It’s not something to be ashamed of or something you have to hide. Instead, in Morra’s view, it’s an asset, a resource, a motivator that can bring out your best work. The hard part is figuring out how to master it so that it helps rather than hinders. If you’ve ever struggled with anxiety, that may sound like a tall order, maybe even impossible, but in this episode, Morra, with help from a pen, a banana, and reams of cutting-edge research, will teach you how to do it.
🎙️ Check out Morra's podcast, The Anxious Achiever
📕 Grab a copy of her book here
📩 Subscribe to Rufus's newsletter
🎁 Use code PODCAST to get 20% off a Next Big Idea Club book box subscription at https://nextbigideaclub.com/