Ever catch yourself thinking, “Ugh, why does everything at work feel so much harder these days?” You’re not imagining it, things are harder. The workforce is shifting, expectations are evolving, and pressures keep piling on. But here’s the deal: as a leader you can let it make you bitter, or you can let it make you better. Here are steps you can take to end the pity party and take back control:

1. Embrace the Change

The first step is acceptance. Yes, things are harder. Workplace dynamics have changed dramatically after COVID-19 and due to other factors like AI, generational shifts, and economic uncertainty. Feeling overwhelmed? Totally normal. But staying stuck in frustration won’t move you forward. Instead, recognize that these challenges are opportunities to evolve your leadership skills and build a more resilient team.

2. Evaluate Where You Are

Take a hard look at your current situation. This includes your leadership style, your team’s performance, and your organization’s systems. What is working well? Celebrate the wins and lean into the processes or habits that are driving success. Where are you falling short? Look at areas like communication, training, and accountability. Are there systems that need fine-tuning or people who need additional support? But we always recommend asking for input from your team to gain insight into what they’re experiencing and where they see room for improvement.

3. Lead with Purpose

Your team looks to you for direction, especially in difficult times. Share the picture of where you’re headed and why it matters. When people understand the purpose behind their work, they’re more likely to stay engaged and committed. Show your team that challenges aren’t roadblocks but stepping stones. 

Growth isn’t optional if you want to thrive in today’s landscape. Great leaders never stop learning. Read, hire a coach, or find a mentor to sharpen your skills. Yes, things are harder than they used to be. But as the saying goes “growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone.” As a leader, you set the tone. You can choose to become bitter, letting the weight of these difficulties drag you down and keep you stuck. Or you can choose to get better, using the challenges as fuel to elevate yourself and your team.