Do you feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders? Whether you are a parent, CEO, entrepreneur, or manager, sometimes the responsibility of leadership can feel too heavy to bear. You may even have caught yourself wondering: Is all this pressure really worth it? Maybe I’m not cut out for this. There has to be an easier way.

The responsibility of making difficult decisions and inspiring others during uncertain times can feel overwhelming. Leaders are often caught in the crossfire of expectations, battling self-doubt, and grappling with the constant pressure to perform. I’ve been there too! In fact, the heaviness you feel is a normal part of leadership; it is a testament to the importance of your role and the potential you have to make a difference.

Shifting your mindset will allow you to transform the weight of leadership from a burden into an opportunity. By reframing your leadership challenges, you can view them as opportunities to demonstrate courage and resilience, become a better problem-solver, and rely on the Lord at a greater level.

How to Cultivate and Maintain Your Leadership Perspective

1. Take Time for Self Reflection

Take the time to understand your values, motivations, and strengths. Reflect on your purpose and the impact you want to make. You can reflect by asking yourself questions like these.

What did I do today that I’m proud of? What did I do today that pushed me toward my goals? What did I avoid doing even though it would have been good for me? How do I define success?

Having a clear picture of what you want, where you are going, and your natural barriers to getting there will help you develop perspective.

2. Take A Step Back

Over and over in the Bible, we see leaders stepping away from the challenges they are facing. Even great men of God had moments when they were overwhelmed by the obstacles they faced.

One of my favorites is the story of Elijah in 2 Kings 19:9-18. Elijah had just come off a major victory. He defeated the prophets of Baal and saw God show up in a huge way. But then the queen threatened to kill him, and he ran away to a cave. I think we all can resonate with Elijah. Maybe your company just lost a major client or your child was just diagnosed with a learning disability. It’s tempting to want to hide and just avoid what’s going on. Disconnecting can have some value, but you cannot hide from your situation forever.

When Elijah was in the cave, God sent an angel to feed him and minister to him. Once Elijah’s physical needs were taken care of, God spoke to Elijah, encouraged him, and gave him new instructions.

When feeling overwhelmed, take a step back from the immediate situation. Take care of your needs, and pray. When you return, it will be easier to see the bigger picture.

As a parent, this might look like realizing that the new discipline technique you are using will not only help your home feel more peaceful but also set your child up for success as an adult. Having the proper perspective will help you push past discomfort and stick with the plan you set for your family.

As an employee or leader, you might gain the perspective to have difficult conversations with your team as your company navigates a new challenge.

Remember, perspective is a continuous practice. It requires constant effort and self-reflection. By cultivating perspective, you can navigate the heaviness of leadership with greater clarity, resilience, and a sense of purpose.

3. Practice Gratitude

Finally, shift your focus toward gratitude by acknowledging the positive aspects of your leadership journey. Celebrate small wins and recognize the progress you and your team have made.

Gratitude will also help you remember the circumstances God has brought you through in the past. If He did it before, He will do it again!

While leadership in any area is a challenge, it is also a great privilege. Your company, clients, and family will be better because of your efforts if you stay consistent and don’t give up.