Leading with Empathy During the Holidays: Why Emotional Intelligence is Key to Success
Three Actionable Steps to Foster Connection and Support
The holiday season can bring a whirlwind of emotions, both personally and professionally. For business leaders, this time of year often comes with heightened stress, tight deadlines, and expectations to perform. While it’s easy to get caught up in the pressure, leading with empathy—especially during the holidays—can make a significant difference in how your team performs and feels.
As a leader, emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a crucial role in navigating these challenges. It’s the ability to recognize, understand, and manage emotions—both your own and others. Empathy, a key component of EQ, helps you connect with your team on a human level and create an environment where they feel valued, heard, and understood. Here are three actionable things you can do to lead with empathy this holiday season:
Check-in on Your Team’s Wellbeing
The holiday season is stressful for many, and it’s easy for employees to get overwhelmed with personal commitments on top of work. Make it a point to regularly check in with your team, not just about projects but about their overall well-being. Simple questions like, “How are you managing with everything going on?” or “Is there anything I can do to support you during this busy time?” can go a long way in showing your team that you care about them as people, not just employees.
Empathy isn’t about solving every problem, but it is about making others feel seen and understood. Taking the time to show concern for your team’s mental and emotional health can improve morale and foster loyalty, which pays off in the long run.
Acknowledge the Emotional Climate
The holidays bring out a range of emotions, and as a leader, it’s essential to acknowledge that. Recognize that some team members may feel the pressure of year-end deadlines while others may experience loneliness or stress due to personal circumstances. Being aware of the emotional climate within your team helps you lead with compassion and adapt your approach accordingly.
During team meetings or one-on-one sessions, ask how people are doing emotionally and give them space to express themselves. This shows that you’re attuned to their feelings and creates a culture of openness. When employees know their emotions are acknowledged, they are more likely to engage and contribute positively.
Model the Balance Between Work & Personal Life
As a leader, you set the tone for your team. If you’re constantly working late or not taking time to recharge, your team may feel compelled to do the same, leading to burnout. This holiday season, model healthy boundaries by making time for your own personal life and wellbeing. Take the time to step away, recharge, and be present with your loved ones. Encourage your team to do the same, reinforcing the idea that balance is not only possible but essential for long-term success.
When you show empathy by caring for your own wellbeing, you’re sending a message to your team that it’s okay to prioritize themselves as well. This creates a healthier work environment and fosters a culture where employees feel empowered to take care of their mental health.
Final Thoughts
Leading with empathy isn’t just a nice-to-have skill; it’s a crucial part of effective leadership. By checking in on your team’s well-being, acknowledging their emotions, and modeling balance, you not only strengthen your relationships with them but also build a more resilient and supportive work culture. As you lead through the holiday season, remember that emotional intelligence and empathy are key to success—for you and your team.
