Fear at an all-time high
It’s normal for higher ed. leaders to feel uncertain about a new President being hired, or budgetary concerns, or an accreditation visit, or any other important aspect of their job. That’s business as usual. But today, fear is at an all-time high because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the closing of schools and businesses, social distancing, quarantines, the stock market crash, and the terrifying consequences on people and the economy. This is an exceptionally scary time! If you watch the news daily and let the media feed your fear, you are probably feeling high anxiety. I know I would be, if I didn’t have tools and strategies to keep my mind clear.
Stop trying to predict the unpredictable
Higher education is not a sector that does well with high risk and volatility. We like to study problems very thoroughly and choose solutions that have a proven track record. We research best practices before we start something new. We are comfortable when we can predict outcomes and make data-driven decisions. That’s the culture.
Last week, many leaders were agonizing over trying to predict what was going to happen, in order to make informed decisions. Some were hesitant to cancel events and turn classroom instruction into online classes. How do you do what’s best when you don’t know what’s best? I’m glad most took preventative measures because the situation escalated quickly.
One essential leadership trait is the ability to navigate uncertainty. Please, don’t waste time and energy wishing you could accurately predict what is going to happen, because you can’t! Do the best you can with what you know now and don’t let your mind picture the worst-case scenario. It would only feed the fear, throw your body into fight or flight, and decrease your ability to think rationally and make good decisions.
What to do instead
1. Focus on immediate needs
What needs your attention right now? It’s important to prioritize and address urgent matters. Don’t let your mind add complexity to an already challenging situation by trying to solve hypothetical future problems. What do your staff members need from you? What is your supervisor asking you to do? What needs to be taken care of at home (e.g. childcare since schools are closed). Don’t spend any time or energy asking yourself how international travel restrictions might affect future vacations or if your home value will decrease following a recession. Take care of what is in front of you right now. That will give you a sense of control and you will avoid overwhelming yourself by worrying about too many things at once.
2. Do your best and take action
The most you can demand from yourself is to do your best, with the information and resources currently available. Things have been evolving very quickly. A couple of weeks ago, we were completely in the dark, but we are learning rapidly. Please don’t be afraid of regretting your decisions down the road. If you fear making a mistake and if you refuse to forgive yourself for making mistakes, you will be paralyzed by fear. Don’t be reckless but be decisive. It’s time for courageous leadership. Step up. Keep moving forward. Trust me, taking action will reduce anxiety whereas over-thinking while doing nothing will throw you into panic!
3. Trust yourself and have confidence
Observe your thoughts and when you notice your mind contemplating scary ideas, focus on trust and confidence. For example, if you worry about what is out of your control and you feel powerless, remember that your power isn’t in predicting issues but in resolving them. You are a leader in higher ed. You have an impressive background, remarkable accomplishments, intelligence, resourcefulness, courage, and creativity. Trust that you will rise to the occasion. Trust that you will figure things out. You may not get exactly what you prefer, but you will be ok, and the people you lead and serve will be ok too. Don’t be attached to things being a certain way. Be flexible and you will adapt to the situation.
4. Take care of yourself
I am writing this one last because my readers already know this, but if this is new to you, make it your #1 strategy to reduce anxiety. People’s emotions are even more contagious than a virus because any exposure at any distance will have an impact. If you are stressed and fearful, the people around you will be stressed and fearful too. It is therefore critically important that you take care of your emotions first.
Embrace daily habits that will keep you grounded and serene such as meditation, journaling, physical activities, and breathing exercises. Focus on gratitude and appreciation for what is good in your life. Turn off the TV and read uplifting books instead. Make time for reflection and connection with your loved ones.
Consider working with a coach because everyone needs to have someone by their side, helping them get through difficult times. And of course, get enough sleep, eat healthy, and stay away from any habits or substances that numb feelings and can become addictive.
Start now
OK, let’s get started.
1. Make a list of what needs your attention right now and don’t give any thoughts to long-term issues that are unpredictable.
2. See, the list is not short, but it is a lot shorter than the list of concerns and worries that were on your mind 10 minutes ago. Realize that it’s doable. You got this!
3. Focus on your priorities and get things done.
4. Remind yourself of how capable you are and trust in your ability to succeed.
5. Be disciplined in your self-care, so that you feel strong and calm and can rise to the occasion with grace.
One last thing; let me ask you, I know you do a lot to help others, but who do you have to help you? Choosing to have someone help you succeed is not a sign of weakness but good judgment! You have a lot on your plate right now and more than ever, you would benefit from working with a coach. Whether you’d like to focus on leadership development, stress reduction, strategic planning, interpersonal communication or influence, I am here for you. Click here to schedule a complimentary call with me and discuss how I can help you thrive during this unprecedented time.
About the author: Dr. Audrey Reille has empowered thousands of professionals through one-on-one coaching, group coaching, speaking engagements, and online courses. Audrey is the go-to coach for leaders in higher education administration. She empowers them to thrive by reducing stress, optimizing strategies, improving professional relationships, and developing a strong and empowered mindset.