‘Going it alone’ does not have to be lonely

In 2019, the study reported a figure of 43.5 per cent of respondents who felt this way. 

The study is conducted every three years to understand local community dynamics in order to inform and help develop policies, practices and services in social policy and assist with what seems to be a growing occurrence.

I have to admit that over the past two to three years, with growing expectations from a social, familial and business point of view, I have also found myself, at times, isolating myself from ‘the rest of world’ in search for answers to the many questions I had.

Thankfully, I had an outlet.

Through an active peer support group of individuals in my same position (at work), I was able to channel my isolated thoughts towards a community of professionals whose commitment is to assist (both myself and others in the group) in making sense of what does not make sense.

Now I had a support group, and still found it tough at times. I can only start to imagine what those who do not have a proactive outlet could be going through.

Unfortunately, there still exists an element of stigma when it comes to vulnerability, especially in the workplace.

Getting stuck, or ‘not knowing what to do’, is often considered a weakness in a highly competitive environment. At leadership level, even more so.

Leaders (whether community, family or business) are expected to be consistently strong, on the ball and ready with an answer, no matter what is thrown at them.

Speaking from experience, that’s B@!!s&!

It is impossible for anyone to have all the answers all the time. It is inconsiderate to think that anyone can be on the ball 24/7. It is unimaginable that anyone can be strong every day. Or at least, let me say I could never be that, all the time!

It is for this reason that I value and cherish my Vistage group. It is for this reason that I look forward to our monthly meetings, and it is for this reason that I commit myself to be available for the groups I run as much as I am committed to the members of the group I am part of; because if I could need them, so could they need me.

Vistage is a community of individuals who come together to collectively share the pain of having to deal with ‘stuff’ on our own so that we do not have to feel lonely while doing so. Being part of it has helped me, and forming part of Vistage or a similar group can help executives who are struggling with ‘going it alone’. After all, going it alone does not have to be lonely.

If you want to find out more about the work of the Faculty for Social Wellbeing click here.

If you think Vistage could provide value to you, your family, business or community check our website or get in touch with us today on [email protected]