38 leaders interviewed, 8 key themes, and one clear finding: leading a company is like running a marathon… except we sometimes forget to train before the race.
Business leaders are often seen as tireless figures, constantly in action. Yet their occupational health is a major issue, affecting both their personal well-being and their professional performance.
Here are the results of our survey, along with practical tips to better manage these challenges :
Your work pace
The analysis :
The surveyed leaders work an average of 55 hours per week.
However, studies show that a company’s performance is not directly linked to the number of hours its leader works.
An excessive level of involvement can even have counterproductive effects, leading to burnout and less effective decision-making.
Our recommendations :
- Defining clear boundaries between work and personal life.
- Take moments to disconnect to preserve your energy.
- Delegate effectively to avoid work overload.
Your sources of motivation
The analysis :
60% are motivated by revenue growth… Achieving financial goals, ensuring the company’s sustainability, and seeing the tangible results of their work are key drivers for them
But what about the work atmosphere? Only 16% mention it. Yet, it is a powerful lever for retention and effectiveness.
Our recommendations :
- Create a positive work environment and build trustful relationships within teams
- Set varied objectives beyond the numbers: customer satisfaction, team well-being, societal impact
- Involving your teams in strategic decisions strengthens their engagement and boosts collective efficiency.
What demotivates you
The analysis :
25% are demotivated by negative personalities. Nothing is worse than the energy drained by professional complainers. Take the time to listen to emotions and set boundaries!
21% mention time pressure. Between multiple responsibilities and daily unforeseen events, it can sometimes be difficult to keep control of your schedule.
Our recommendations :
- Set clear boundaries with negative personalities to preserve your energy.
- Use time management tools like the Eisenhower method or the Pomodoro technique.
- Offer stimulating challenges and continuous learning to maintain engagement
What stresses you
The analysis :
41% are stressed due to finances. Cash flow is like the weather: we prefer it when it’s stable. Dare to express your concerns to your employees. Their support will help you maintain a positive morale!
26% of leaders are stressed due to managing difficult personalities. Leading also means juggling sometimes complicated human relationships: employees resistant to change, internal tensions, latent conflicts… These situations drain energy and can quickly hinder the team’s performance
Our recommendations :
- Share your financial concerns with the team to avoid shouldering the pressure alone.
- Communicate proactively and anticipate tensions for better conflict management.
- Consult an external expert to clarify your finances and improve relationship management, in order to find more peaceful solutions.
Your work relationships
The analysis :
Leaders generally maintain good relationships with their associates and partners due to shared goals.
But when it comes to clients and suppliers, it’s more delicate: pressure from deadlines, tense negotiations, conflicting expectations…
Finally, a often overlooked point: the relationship with family. Work invades personal life, creating tensions.
Our recommendations :
- Define clear roles and maintain regular communication with partners.
- Proactively manage client and supplier relationships with clearly defined expectations.
- Set aside dedicated time for family to maintain a work-life balance.
Your latest management training
The analysis :
62% of leaders have not undergone management training in over 6 years. However, new ways of working and the evolving expectations of employees require updating management skills.
Our recommendations :
- Regularly update your leadership skills.
- Train in communication and team management to strengthen cohesion.
- Attend conferences or webinars on modern management.
Discover our ‘Manager-Leader’ training.
What your teams think
The analysis :
95% of leaders do not measure the impact of their management. Imagine flying a plane without a dashboard. Measuring team satisfaction allows you to adjust your approach and improve.
Our recommendations :
- Implement internal surveys to gather concrete feedback (e.g., satisfaction barometer, 360° feedback)
- Encourage open and regular dialogue with teams to identify areas for improvement.
- Use tools like Officevibe or Culture Amp to track the evolution of employee well-being.
Your areas for improvement
The analysis :
Running a business is a constant challenge. To remain efficient and inspiring, one must continuously adjust their approach, refine their communication, and optimize their organization. Here are some key levers for progress.
Our recommendations :
- Give feedback / recognition (21%) – Speaking from the heart costs nothing, and it pays off big.
- Manage your emotions (20%) – Staying calm in the midst of a storm is the art of leadership.
- Optimize your time (15%) – No, replying to all emails as soon as you arrive is not a strategy.
To conclude :
Taking care of your health at work also strengthens your leadership and performance. By applying these good practices, you can improve your well-being and that of your company.
