What are some stressors that are unique to leadership positions in the software industry? What advice would you offer to a new leader looking to manage their own stress levels?
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CTO in Banking2 months ago
The software industry is a high-pressure environment, and leaders often face the risk of burnout. I experienced this first hand after a decade in banking, creating enterprise software. It was only after attending a talk by a former Facebook employee about burnout and a 12-step recovery program that I understood what had happened to me. Now, I take measures to prevent a similar situation, both for myself and those around me. As a leader, it's crucial to model the behaviors we want to see in our teams. This includes emphasizing the importance of mental health, spending quality time with team members, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. For instance, I make sure not to send emails over the weekend, scheduling them for Monday morning instead. This demonstrates to my team that it's okay to disconnect and take time off.VP of Engineering2 months ago
Burnout is a real concern, especially for high achievers who tend to push themselves to their limits. As a new leader, it's important to understand that your role has changed significantly. You're no longer just an individual contributor; you're responsible for the outcomes of your entire team. This means that not every problem is yours to solve alone. Effective conflict resolution, time management, and expectation setting can help prevent issues from becoming major stressors. Remember, your team isn't just watching what you do, but how you do it. Your approach to work, your attitude, and your team's wellbeing are all under scrutiny. It's important to be intentional about avoiding burnout and to model healthy behaviors.VP of Engineering2 months ago
My advice for new leaders is to always have mentors, regardless of how high up you are. Some people believe they've outgrown the need for a mentor, but having someone who can guide you and provide valuable insights is invaluable. A support system of peers and mentors can help reduce stress. Simply talking through issues can often lead to solutions. It's also important to recognize that you can't control everything. Some things are simply beyond your control, and it's crucial to focus on what you can do rather than what you can't. If a team member wants to leave, for example, you may not be able to change their mind. Instead of stressing over it, focus on what you can achieve with the resources you have at your disposal. Understanding that you can't control everything can significantly reduce stress levels.