Lead Effectively During Uncertainty: Supporting Managers Through Stressful Times

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it couldn’t be a better time to spotlight a growing crisis in today’s workplaces: the severe stress and burnout that managers are facing. These are the folks tasked with “holding it all together,” balancing executive demands, team challenges, and their own well-being. And, increasingly, they’re doing it without enough support.

I was struck by recent research that revealed 47% of people managers in the U.S. report severe stress, and that stress is only getting worse. As they strive to support burned-out teams while navigating constant change, these managers often silently reach their breaking points.

Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

Most managers I work with have the best intentions. They genuinely care about their teams and want to lead effectively, but here’s the catch: without proper training and support, their efforts can inadvertently contribute to team disengagement, burnout, and turnover.

When managers are overwhelmed and under-supported, the damage doesn’t stay contained—it spreads quickly across teams. Without the right training and resources, even the best-intentioned leaders can fuel burnout, disengagement, and rising tension. And once stress has taken hold, it’s not enough to hope things will improve on their own. Managers need genuine support—both to prevent these patterns and to repair the damage when morale and trust have already begun to erode. Without timely action, organizations risk not only losing productivity but also losing the people who make it possible.

The Organizational Impact of Stress-Driven Leadership

Here’s a harsh truth: Nearly half of all U.S. managers have never received formal leadership training. Given this, it’s hardly surprising that a gap exists between a manager’s intention and their team’s experience.

That’s why I’m passionate about supporting leaders with the right tools, like Everything DiSC®Worksmart on Catalyst, a powerful resource that builds emotional intelligence, dignity-centered leadership skills, and practical strategies. It’s one of the frameworks I use to help managers lead with greater clarity, empathy, and confidence. Because when leaders are truly supported, teams don’t just survive—they thrive.

A Path Forward: Empowered Leaders, Resilient Teams

The good news? Manager burnout isn’t inevitable. Organizations that invest proactively in their leaders, before burnout hits critical mass, retain their best talent, safeguard their culture, and build resilient teams ready to navigate uncertainty.

For those looking to proactively support their managers, I highly recommend exploring the Everything DiSC® Worksmart on Catalyst training program. To make this even easier, a limited-time offer is available from May 5 through July31, offering 50% off the 5-course bundle. Now is a perfect opportunity to provide your managers with the foundation they need to lead with confidence, clarity, and care.

🧠 The Data Doesn’t Lie:

• 📊 47% of U.S. managers report severe stress.
• 📈 31% have seen stress rise significantly within just six months.
• ❌ Only 56% have ever received formal leadership training.

✅ 78% remain optimistic: with the right tools and support, they’re ready to rise to the challenge.

Action Plan: Assess and Support

🧭 Leadership Stress Check: Think about your managers—what’s one challenge they’re facing right now without adequate support?

🗓 Action Step: Let’s connect. Book a 30-minute conversation to identify your leadership pressure points and explore if DiSC® Worksmart on Catalyst is the right fit for your team.

I’ll leave you with a question to reflect on and engage with:

“Think back to your first leadership role—what skill do you wish someone had taught you sooner?”

Share your thoughts below; I’d love to hear your insights and experiences. And if you’re ready to equip your managers with the skills and support they need to lead well, I’m here to help. 👉 Click here to schedule a discovery call: Let’s Connect