We’re all human, and performance anxiety can be debilitating whatever position you hold within a company. But for those at the top, the weight of being the primary decision-maker, combined with the expectation of unwavering confidence, can be a breeding ground for worry. What happens when this becomes overwhelming?
A bit of pressure can be a good thing – after all, they do say that pressure makes diamonds. But, when this tips into excessive worry and anxiety, performance starts to suffer. What begins as a seed of self-doubt can quickly spiral, affecting leadership, performance, decision-making, and communication.
Everyone’s experienced an overly stressed boss who makes poor decisions, snaps at the smallest things, and forgets important details. It may sound blunt, but no one likes a stressed boss. So, how do we shake off these nerves and get back in the game?
Imagined, assumed & actual truths
It starts with changing how you react to stressful situations. Instead of letting your mind run wild with worst-case scenarios, take a step back and ask yourself: am I responding to an imagined truth, an assumed truth, or an actual truth? Anxiety thrives on uncertainty, so step one is to seek out the facts and ground yourself in reality.
Focus on what you can control.
Take stock of what’s actually within your control. Recognising when circumstances are outside your control is a real skill and can be incredibly empowering. Redirect your focus towards aspects you can manage. Accepting your own limits can provide a sense of closure and free up mental bandwidth for more productive endeavours, giving you the power to steer your own course.
How can a business mentor help?
There’s no quick fix to performance anxiety, but a business mentor can play a crucial role in helping you navigate it. A mentor can boost your confidence, listen, offer advice, and help you see things differently. They can talk you through tough decisions, remind you that failure is part of the process, and help you ensure success is on the horizon.
A business mentor serves as a trusted confidant, offering impartial guidance and practical strategies to overcome challenges, such as performance anxiety. Mentors help you develop coping mechanisms through personalised guidance and provide a framework for growth and self-improvement. Having someone in your corner truly does make all the difference.
So, if you’re feeling the weight of the world on your shoulders, don’t go it alone. Reach out to a mentor, take a deep breath, and remember: you’ve got this.
At Burles & Co., we’re dedicated to clarifying your business and personal goals to create a plan that works for you. Serving Leeds and the wider West Yorkshire area, Burles & Co. offers personalised mentorship and guidance to help you navigate the challenges and triumphs of business. Reach out to us today by calling +44(0)7778489332 or emailing steve@burlesand.co.
