When Stress Speaks Louder Than Words
- Lindy Brewster
- Jun 4
- 1 min read
Over the past few days, I’ve heard some truly sobering stories from organizational leaders about the toll stress has taken on their lives. Whether in the corporate world or the not-for-profit sector, the common thread is clear: the relentless pressure to perform drives leaders to push through—often at great personal cost.
What’s most alarming is how often the early warning signs go unnoticed or are ignored. Leaders carry on, unaware of the mounting strain until their body or mind forces them to stop—sometimes through a stroke, heart attack, or a collapsed immune system. Even then, the message is clear, but not always acted upon.
Stress doesn’t need to escalate to a crisis before it gets our attention. There are ways to intervene early and gently shift toward balance. One of the most powerful (and accessible) methods is reconnecting with nature. That could mean gardening, walking down a tree-lined street, or simply taking a mindful moment by a river, lake, or even a fountain—listening, watching, and breathing.
Regulating stress starts with small, consistent steps. Take regular breaks, even if they’re just five minutes. Use them to reset, recharge, and rebuild your resilience. Over time, these moments create a buffer—a kind of internal spaciousness that helps us respond rather than react.
Your well-being is not a luxury. It’s the foundation of your leadership.