However, I see them too often taking on the entire weight of a crisis or a difficult situation. Although it may be a reflex for many, believe me, this strategy is NOT viable in the medium/long term. Instead, be a guide for your teams and stop trying to control the uncontrollable!

Since the pandemic began, I’ve seen unprecedented levels of leader stress and burnout. Here are three pieces of advice I give to those I coach.

1. Understand and accept how you feel

There is a well-known safety tip in aviation: the importance of putting on your oxygen mask first before trying to put on anyone else's. Let's apply it to human resources management! You won't save much if you don't take care of yourself during the tumultuous phase. It is not only important, but essential, to have enough oxygen to carry your team through.

Being able to understand and manage the emotions you experience as a leader will make it easier to guide others. This will prevent you from feeling suffocated by the situation and will give you the perspective you need to take the right action. Taking care of yourself allows you to take care of others: tip number one!

2. Connect with your team members

Regular and frequent contact with team members is an important element in times of uncertainty. You need to be able to communicate the situation as clearly as possible. Be transparent and honest…even if you don’t have all the answers!

At the same time, communication must be two-way in order to be able to fully understand the emotions that others are experiencing. You have to take the time to listen to them, to show empathy, but also compassion. Subtlety is important here. Empathy leads the leader to understand what others are feeling, but compassion pushes him to want to help them.

Showing compassion strengthens the bond and sense of trust between team members and the leader. Also practice and encourage self-compassion. Oddly important in times of instability and yet so often overlooked. This is my number two tip.

3. Focus on the common goal

It is essential to refocus on the common goal. What is the goal? What is under your control or responsibility? You must remind yourself why you are doing your work, the why being a powerful motivator that carries true meaning.

For what purpose? For what purpose? It is important to discuss it with the members of your team, and to make it a common project. The members must feel listened to but also involved in the future. Alone we go fast, but together we go further. Tip number three!

A lighthouse without light guides no one. As a leader, you have to keep it bright and visible in order to bring some clarity into this fog that can sometimes be the world of work. Remember that you must first take care of yourself to better take care of others!