Leadership is challenging. It’s fulfilling, yes, but it’s also relentless.
And the latest Global Leadership Forecast 2025 reveals an alarming reality: 40% of leaders are considering stepping away from their roles. Burnout, time scarcity, and mounting stress are pushing many to their breaking point.
The cost of this trend is staggering. When leaders leave, the pipeline weakens. Teams suffer, organisations struggle to maintain direction, and the ripple effect on morale and performance is undeniable.
Simply put—we need leaders. Desperately.
But how do you lead when you feel like you’re running on empty?
My Turning Point
I’ve faced that exact question more than once in my leadership journey. There were times when I questioned whether it was worth it. Time felt like something I never had enough of. I was burning the candle at both ends, exhausted, and frustrated.
I wasn’t enjoying it anymore, and at times, I resented it. Each day felt like an endless loop of deadlines, demands, and disappointments.
Until I realised that the very thing I thought I didn’t have enough of—time—was what I needed to use differently.
So, I carved out a couple of hours to stop, assess, reset, and align my priorities.
Planning and reflection were essential to get me out of the hole I was in. As I gradually got on top of things, I began investing just 10–20 minutes a day—depending on my demands—to recalibrate and refocus.
That small daily habit gave me clarity, control, and confidence for the day ahead. I became a better leader. I became a better person. Now, I’m addicted to the process. It’s now central to my choice framework.
At the end of every day, no matter how busy it was, I asked myself three questions:
- How was I as a leader today?
- What went well today?
- What can I change tomorrow so that it’s even better than today?
It wasn’t easy at first. Finding the time felt impossible. But here’s the thing: 20 minutes is only 1.39% of your day.
By committing to this practice, I stopped reacting to the chaos and started leading intentionally. I also continually reminded myself of how I want to be as a leader, and what I want to achieve.
I still do it today.
Why Leaders Are Needed Now More Than Ever
As more leaders consider stepping away, the cracks in the leadership pipeline are becoming harder to ignore. Organisations can’t afford to lose experienced leaders, especially when the challenges of today demand resilience, adaptability, and purpose-driven leadership.
Leadership isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being intentional. When leaders take the time to reflect and realign, they don’t just improve their own performance; they inspire their teams, strengthen their organisations, and ensure the pipeline remains strong for future leaders to follow.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, start small. Carve out just 10–20 minutes a day, stop and ask yourself those 3 questions and see for yourself how effective it is.
These moments of reflection are not a luxury—they’re a necessity.
Because leadership isn’t just about managing tasks; it’s about modelling the habits and behaviours that create sustainable success for yourself, your team, and your organisation.
We need you to stay. Your leadership matters—more than ever.