"Cuando dejamos de lado los prejuicios y escuchamos, aprendemos. La inclusión expande nuestra mente y fortalece al equipo." Simon Sinek
Companies usually care about taking care of their tools and work equipment, providing maintenance and carrying out repairs when necessary. However, what about the collaborators, who are the true driving force of any organization? Despite its importance, only 35.7% of companies have strategies to take care of the physical and mental health of their employees, according to data from Nomitek.
In a global context where 301 million people live with anxiety disorders, it is urgent that organizations, especially family ones, take a proactive role. These types of conditions not only impact health, but also productivity, generating difficulties concentrating, insomnia, constant tension and physical discomfort.
Unfortunately, many business owners still make decisions based on stereotypes. One of the most common is to think that men are better equipped emotionally to deal with work pressure. In contrast, recent studies show that women in leadership positions can confront these problems with a more empathetic and effective approach.
Breaking down stereotypes
Leading a team is no longer just about imposing authority or fostering a competitive environment, characteristics traditionally associated with the masculine. Today, effective leadership requires emotional skills such as empathy, communication and motivation.
It is often said that women “get carried away” by their emotions, but this is a myth. According to the Human Resources Observatory, women show greater consistency in their emotional self-control, with 86% greater effectiveness than men. Leadership based on emotional skills not only benefits women; transforms companies.
The power of female leadership in times of crisis
A study by the British Psychological Society found that, in times of crisis, male leaders tend to adopt negative behaviors towards their teams more than women. The latter, for their part, have demonstrated a level of empathy that is up to 45% higher in adverse situations.
Empowering women in leadership roles not only promotes equality, but strengthens companies, especially in times where pressure and anxiety affect the mental health and performance of employees.
“A company that understands the importance of inclusion and respect in our times will know how to support its employees and provide opportunities to those who deserve them.”
It’s time to change
In Mexico, 60% of people with mental disorders do not receive professional help. At the same time, only 32% of management positions are occupied by women. This highlights two major challenges: prioritizing the mental health of employees and promoting gender equality in organizations.
Beyond gender, a company committed to inclusion and respect will be able to not only support its employees, but also build a solid culture based on values. These principles are the basis of success in any team.
A paradox that invites reflection
Although historically leadership was linked to strength, today we understand that it is empathy that sustains teams. Paradoxically, the more sensitive and humane a leader’s decisions are, the firmer and more resilient his organization will be.
“There is no barrier, lock or bolt that you can impose on the freedom of my mind.” Virginia Woolf
Contact:
Twitter: @mariorizofiscal
The opinions expressed are solely the responsibility of their authors and are completely independent of the position and editorial line of Forbes Mexico.
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