It’s Okay to Say “I’m Struggling”—Even as a Leader
Why vulnerability isn’t a weakness—it’s the start of safer culture
There’s this quiet pressure in leadership roles—to have it together, stay strong, keep morale up, and lead the way forward. And often, that turns into something dangerous:
A belief that you’re not allowed to struggle.
That leaders must be resilient, composed, always calm—even when they’re burning out behind the scenes.
But here’s the truth: you’re human first, leader second. And the moment you allow yourself to say, “I’m not doing great right now,” you create space for others to do the same.
The Silent Weight Leaders Carry
In high-pressure environments, leaders are often:
Absorbing team stress without showing it
Navigating change without clarity themselves
Balancing unrealistic expectations from above and below
Making space for everyone else’s wellbeing—except their own
Over time, this emotional labour builds up. And without somewhere to take it, it turns into burnout, cynicism, fatigue, or emotional withdrawal.
This doesn’t just hurt the leader. It impacts the whole team.
What Happens When Leaders Speak Up
When a leader says, “I’m struggling,” it doesn’t signal failure—it signals safety.
It tells your team:
You’re human too
It’s okay to have off days
Mental health isn’t a taboo topic
Strength includes honesty—not just endurance
It builds trust. It normalises rest. And it breaks the culture of silence that often exists around stress and burnout.
But What If It Feels Too Risky?
It’s valid. Many leaders worry:
“Will people lose confidence in me?”
“Will I look weak or unprofessional?”
“What if my boss thinks I can’t handle the job?”
But here’s the truth: you can be vulnerable and still capable. The two aren’t mutually exclusive. In fact, leaders who can name their limits—and take action to protect them—are often more respected, not less.
Because you’re modelling sustainable leadership, not martyrdom.
How to Share Honestly (Without Oversharing)
You don’t need to give your team a full emotional download. A simple, clear message goes a long way.
Examples:
“I’ve been feeling a bit stretched lately, so I’m taking a few things off my plate this week to reset.”
“I’ve had a tough few days—I’m doing what I need to recharge, and I’m here if you need me.”
“Just so you know, I’m working on setting better boundaries too—it’s a work in progress.”
This honesty opens the door without putting pressure on your team to fix it for you.
Support for the Supporters
If you’re a leader, it’s okay to need support too.
Check in with a mentor or trusted peer
Speak to a coach or psychologist
Take the leave you’d encourage your team to take
Use EAP if available—yes, it’s for you too
Block time to think, recover, or simply rest
Leadership isn’t about carrying the weight alone. It’s about knowing how to hold it without breaking yourself in the process.
Final Thought: The Leader Who Struggles and Speaks Is the One We Trust
Saying, “I’m not okay,” doesn’t make you less of a leader.
It makes you a braver one.
A more trustworthy one.
A more human one.
In Australian workplaces, where burnout and disconnection are rising, this kind of leadership isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Because culture shifts when leaders lead with honesty, not perfection.