The Hidden Burden of Leadership

“I have told you things that I have never told anyone before”
said David at the end of our coaching session.
David is a senior Executive and board member with 25+ years international management experience in the manufacturing industry. And he is also human.
He has his doubts and his worries like any other human being.
And he feels lonely, working in another country away from his family.

Sometimes he is very insecure.

He cherishes our coaching sessions as they give him the opportunity to speak freely about his worries without being judged. He gets a fresh perspective and new options to choose from.

And David is certainly not alone. Even the most accomplished leaders experience moments of doubt, loneliness, and uncertainty. But in a culture that often equates leadership with unwavering confidence, who do executives turn to when they need support?

For STEM leaders, this challenge is even more pronounced. Many have built their careers on logic, expertise, and problem-solving. Expressing vulnerability can feel counterintuitive. Yet, embracing it is not a sign of weakness; it is a characteristic of great leadership.

The Lonely Reality of Senior Leadership Roles

Leadership at the top can be isolating. Senior executives are expected to project confidence, have the answers, and make high-stakes decisions. But behind closed doors, many leaders like David struggle with self-doubt, stress, and the weight of responsibility.

Unlike earlier in their careers, where they could freely seek mentorship or peer support, senior leaders often feel there are fewer safe spaces to express their uncertainties. Colleagues may be competitors, subordinates may rely on their decisiveness, and boards expect results. This dynamic creates an environment where leaders keep their struggles to themselves.

The Importance of Psychological Safety and Non-Judgmental Listening

One of the most powerful tools for executive well-being is psychological safety, the ability to speak openly without fear of judgment or consequences. Leaders who feel safe to discuss their concerns, doubts, or even failures are more effective, resilient, and adaptable.

Psychological safety means having trusted spaces—whether in confidential peer groups, mentorship relationships, or executive coaching—where leaders can express their thoughts freely, gain perspective, and process challenges without the need to always appear in control.

The Value of Executive Coaching as a Safe Space

Executive coaching provides a rare, judgment-free space where senior leaders can speak candidly, reflect deeply, and find clarity. Unlike internal discussions, where office politics or personal dynamics can play a role, coaching sessions create an objective, structured environment where leaders can freely explore their thoughts and concerns.

Practical Reflection: What Conversations Are You Not Having?

Take a moment to refect: