How We Grieve

Today is the 18th anniversary of my father's death. He was a young man and lost his battle with cancer at the young age of 58.  In his honor, I will delve into a topic that touches each of us at some point in our lives: the grief process. Grief is a universal experience, yet it's often misunderstood and challenging to navigate, especially in leadership roles.

Grief is not only about the loss of a loved one; it can also stem from the loss of a job, a relationship, or even a dream. As leaders, it's crucial to understand how grief impacts ourselves, our teams, and our There are five stages: denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. These stages are not linear; individuals may move back and forth between them, and they may experience them differently.

In leadership, it's essential to recognize that grief doesn't have a timeline. Some team members may bounce back quickly, while others may need more time and support. Our role as leaders is to create a safe space for people to express their emotions and to offer empathy and understanding.

But how do we lead effectively through grief? Firstly, we must lead by example. It's okay for leaders to show vulnerability and express their own grief. Authenticity builds trust and strengthens connections within the team.

I love you and miss you Dad.