Reflecting on recent workshops for mid-level managers has been eye-opening. As we wrapped up our fifth session on enhancing workplace collaboration – a crucial skill in today’s fast-paced environments – the conversations revealed profound insights into their daily struggles and aspirations.

One sentiment echoed loudly among them: a pervasive feeling of overwhelm while leading their teams and navigating upward influence. As one manager put it, “I can’t see above the water line, and my manager is doing the best to keep up as well.”

Their stories highlighted several common concerns:

⏱️ Time constraints that hinder thorough task completion.

📝 Constant reprioritization without clarity or resources.

☎️ Decreased communication with their manager, impacting guidance and support.

😞 Heightened risks of burnout amidst evolving work demands.

📓 Scattered efforts in their own development without clear purpose.

Yet amidst these challenges, what truly inspired me was their eagerness to learn how to nurture and motivate their teams. Their energy during this topic was incredible!

Managers are mentally, and in many cases, emotionally tired. They looked for the opportunity to advance their career – mostly without guidance, clarity or training. They often lack the foundational skills to deal with constant change or the experience to bounce back from adversity.

In today’s hybrid work landscape, these challenges gain new complexity. The calls for support from these managers, particularly those new to their roles or organizations, highlight the ongoing transformation in today’s work environment.

What began as a discussion on workplace collaboration naturally shifted into a deeper conversation about self-preservation. We all had to rethink and evolve together.