How to Reduce Stress at the Executive Level
Millions of people around the world suffer from stress, but for those at the executive level, it can be off the charts. The pressures of running multi-billion-dollar companies and the responsibilities that come with that role are immense and can take their toll on a personal level.
With an increased focus on personal well-being, many, including those at the executive level, recognize that to avoid serious health problems in the future, they must take care of themselves now. This is easier said than done because there are only so many hours in a day. It’s a fine line, but if these powerful men and women stop to think about it, they will realize that the only way in which they can be successful in all aspects of their lives is by managing their stress levels.
Where Does Stress Come From?
People are always looking for ways to reduce stress levels in their lives, whether it’s through exercise, a hobby, spending time with family, cooking or any other activity that takes their mind off work problems. But most have never asked themselves, where is this stress coming from?
Surprisingly, we are the cause for our own predicament, because stress is the way in which we deal with the pressures of life internally. When someone goes against our set of personal standards or beliefs, we react to it in a negative way. Therefore, many of the most popular self-help methods include techniques to help people change their mindset.
Is Executive Level Stress Real?
Interestingly, some scientific studies conclude that stress at the executive level is lower than that found in lower level employees. These results indicate that people in higher level positions may know how to manage stress better and let go of those things that are not important to them. This could be due to their ability to delegate responsibilities and manage personnel to take care of the important tasks at hand.
Undoubtedly, those at the executive levels deal with many critical issues on a day to day basis. The pressure of today’s competitive global markets is real, but the way in which those in top positions are as different as each of the companies they run.
How Do Famous CEOs Deal with Stress?
Those at the executive level can take some comfort in the fact that they are not alone. But how do some of the most famous CEOs in the world deal with their stress?
Jeff Bezos – Amazon CEO
In an excerpt published by Fortune Magazine, Jeff Bezos, who leads one of the largest companies in the world, Amazon, explained that to deal with stress, everything must be faced head-on. Bezos believes that stress is primarily managed by taking action over things under his control.
Jack Dorsey – Twitter Co-founder
For Jack Dorsey, waking up at 5:30 a.m. to meditate and jog is the best way to deal with the stress of the day. He also likes to step away from his desk during the day and take a short walk outside to refuel.
Tim Cook – Apple CEO
The Apple CEO is one of the busiest men in the world and to reduce the stress of the coming Monday, he plans by scheduling staff phone calls on Sunday nights to discuss important matters. This gives him a head start and prepares him for the week ahead.
Satya Nadella – Microsoft CEO
Open lines of communication are what make life easier for Nadella. The Microsoft CEO told USA Today she likes to avoid burnout in employees by being flexible and considering their personal needs.
These are only a few examples of what some of the most powerful executives do to make their lives easier. Staying organized by setting deadlines is one of the ways many like to reduce stress, while an intense workout session or relaxing massage works best for others.
Some people rely on the instant gratification of alcohol and prescription drugs to reduce their stress and keep moving through their day. This can become problematic as it is very easy to become addicted to these substances. With this can come a change in personality, a change in goals and desires and a plethora of negative consequences. Many CEOs in this position find themselves at a luxury drug rehab where they can learn holistic or natural ways to cope with the stress and anxiety in their lives.
Many people are using meditation and relaxation techniques to help manage stress these days. Companies are more and more interested in offering these services, to promote the well-being of their employees with things like on-site gyms or pools. If those who work in the assembly line think the boss is interested in their health, that makes for a happier workforce and a better atmosphere.
Bottom-line: Take time for yourself. Not only will this help you keep your sanity but it will also improve your leadership performance.
