We’re taught that leadership is about making decisions, driving results, and staying in control. But somewhere along the way, we lost sight of something crucial—our own mental health. In the pursuit of success, we neglected ourselves.
We got so good at walking the corporate line that we forgot to walk the most important path: the one that keeps us whole.
When was the last time you checked in with yourself? Really stopped to ask: “How am I doing?” Not just in terms of performance metrics or shareholder expectations, but in terms of mental well-being. Chances are, it’s been a while.
But here’s the truth no one tells you: Your leadership starts with you. Your authenticity as a leader—your ability to inspire and guide—comes from how deeply you know yourself. That includes recognizing when you’re struggling, when you need support, and when your mental health is suffering. If you’re not taking care of yourself, how can you expect your team to do the same?
Walking the talk of mental health isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being real. When you stand up in front of your team and share your journey, your struggles, and the steps you’re taking to prioritize your mental health, you’re not showing weakness—you’re showing courage. And that courage will ripple through your organization, creating a culture where mental health is valued, not stigmatized.
That’s leadership. And it starts with you.