Leading When It Feels Heavy: Small Moves That Make a Difference
A CEO told us recently:
“I’m trying to stay grounded. But everything feels heavy.”
They’re not alone. Even the most capable leaders—and their teams—feel the toll of prolonged change, pressure, or uncertainty. The demands keep coming, expectations stay high, and even the most resilient systems start to strain.
When energy and clarity fade, so can performance.
Sometimes what’s needed is a real pause — to step away, reset, or even re-design the system itself. But often, before that point, there are smaller moves that help restore momentum and reconnect people to purpose.
Three Small Moves That Matter
1. Name It.
Sometimes just saying, “This is hard,” or “I’m feeling stuck,” normalizes the moment. Naming what’s real builds trust and creates space to re-focus. It signals that honesty and reflection are part of the work.
2. Reclaim Energy.
Reconnect with the parts of the work that light you up — problem-solving, mentoring, shaping vision. Your energy fuels others. The more you work from that grounded place, the more your team can, too.
3. Spot and Amplify Progress.
Call out what’s working — on purpose and out loud.
This isn’t just about morale; it’s performance science.
🧠 Our brains are wired to scan for threats more than wins.
🧠 Research shows we need roughly three positive interactions to counter one negative (the Losada Ratio; Fredrickson).
🧠 And even small progress releases dopamine, helping us stay motivated and future-oriented (Amabile & Kramer, The Progress Principle).
Three Questions to Recenter
As you read this, pause and ask yourself:
➡️ What progress have I made this week?
➡️ What win can I celebrate — for myself or for others?
➡️ How am I actually doing? What might I need today to keep leading with clarity, energy, and purpose?
In the midst of the grind, progress can serve as fuel.
It reminds us that momentum isn’t only about speed — it’s about direction, meaning, and the steady work of moving forward, even when things feel heavy.
