What Causes Leaders to be Discouraged?
Have you met a discouraged leader? Let me rephrase that! Have you been discouraged in your leadership journey. Most of us face discouragement in our journey of leading organizations and people. The bible records the story of a famous prophet named Elijah who was greatly used of God in his day. He had fearless defended God in his day. We read about his exploits in 1 Kings Chapters 17 and 18 and we also read of his discouragement in Chapter 19. So discouraged was he that he prayed that he might die. “It is enough! Now LORD, take my life for I am not better than my fathers.”
What causes discouragement in leadership? In this instance for Elijah, it was a lady called Jezebel and her death threats. For today’s leader, it may be the demands of the high office, lack of rest, targets or even problems at home.
Leadership is often portrayed as a position of strength, vision, and influence. However, behind the scenes, many leaders experience moments of discouragement that can affect their confidence and effectiveness. Understanding the root causes of this discouragement is essential for building resilience and sustaining leadership impact.
Some of the causes of discouragement include, but are not limited to the following:
1. Unrealistic Expectations
Leaders are frequently held to high standards, by their teams, stakeholders, and even themselves. When expectations become unrealistic, leaders may feel overwhelmed and inadequate. The pressure to deliver flawless results can lead to burnout and self-doubt. As one embarks on a new leadership role the expectations both for self and from stakeholders can be high and unrealistic. As the leader settles on the role, reality begins to sink in sometimes causing discouragement.
2. Lack of Support
Leadership can be isolating. Without a strong support system, whether from peers, mentors, or their own team leaders may feel alone in their challenges. This isolation amplifies stress and makes it harder to navigate complex decisions. Many times, we underestimate the value of this support. When I was challenged to take over the leadership of Trans World Radio Kenya, the support I received from our board and our Regional Director were invaluable, especially in the early days. The phone calls and emails to check on me and how I was settling, the reviews after every board meeting not only boosted my morale but made me feel comfortable. The words of affirmation from my Management team, who had been my peers before the appointment was invaluable.
3. Resistance to Change
Whether taking up a new role in the same organization or joining a new organization all together, driving change is a core responsibility of leadership, but resistance from employees or stakeholders can be discouraging. When efforts to innovate or improve are met with skepticism or pushbacks, leaders may question their vision and lose momentum. It may then take time and extra effort to pick up momentum again. In some cases, resistance to change manifests as constant criticism of the leader’s ideas and initiatives, eroding the leader’s confidence.
Below are some strategies to help us navigate discouragement in leadership.
Remember Your ‘Why’
Establish the source of your discouragement. Most discouragement comes from the “what” and “how” of leadership, not the “why.” Reconnecting with your original purpose and calling can provide renewed energy and perspective. Remembering the reason, you took up the role and the goals you planned to accomplish.
Celebrate Wins Regularly
Start meetings or your day by identifying wins big or small. This practice sparks energy, momentum, and thanksgiving, which are life-giving ingredients especially when facing complex challenges. Keep a daily journal of at least three things to be thankful for. I have a friend who starts her day by listing 10 things she is thankful for each day, and this becomes fuel for whatever lies ahead.
Step into the Role of Listener
When others on your team are discouraged, choose to listen rather than immediately solve problems. This shows you care and creates an environment where discouragement is allowed to exist rather than being suppressed. An “only positivity can exist here” leadership style is never effective long-term because it prevents people from being real.
Build Community
While you ultimately need to process things yourself, having a few good friends you can be honest with, a good therapist, and sometimes a good doctor is integral to getting through difficult seasons. Personally, I have greatly benefited from mentors and a small circle of friends who have prayed, encouraged, questioned and walked the leadership journey with me.
What else can we add onto this list as we reflect discouragement?
As for Elijah, who believed that he was all alone, God opened his eyes to see he was not the only prophet left after all. Sometimes, in moments of discouragement, we only need to open our eyes!