Leadership isn't about being invincible, it's about being human while still inspiring confidence in your team. When you're struggling with stress or a heavy workload, the question becomes: how do you share this without undermining your authority or causing worry among your team?

This is a tricky balance that many creative leaders face but rarely talk about. The good news? Being honest about your challenges can actually make you a stronger leader and build a healthier team culture.

This question was answered by Dr Khristin Highet, a mental health educator focused on workplace wellbeing in the creative industry, and Nick Hunter, Co-founder and CEO of Paper Moose. Andy Wright, founder of Never Not Creative and CEO of Streamtime, hosted the discussion.

Start with your manager first

Dr Khristin Highet suggests starting by speaking with your manager: "Discussing with your manager first and foremost to try to explore what ideas and steps can be taken to help manage the workload."

Be specific about what's causing your stress. Dr Khristin Highet says: "It's also really helpful to be specific about what is underneath that stress and the reduced coping because when we're specific it can lead to developing specific solutions to help meet our needs."

Also outline what you've already tried: "Let them know what steps you've taken so far because I've heard more often than not that supervisors or managers will say what about this or have you done this or have you tried this so you beat them to the punch there."

Turn vulnerability into psychological safety

Dr Khristin Highet reframes vulnerability as a strength: "This is the opportunity of where we can normalize human responses to challenging situations within the team and we call this psychological safety."

Nick agrees: "I tried to be quite vulnerable with my team and I don't think they think any less of me when that happens. I think I become more human and that they also understand that there is that safety net."

He shares an example: "I've got young kids I'll come in in the morning and I didn't sleep last night guys please tell me if I say something totally insane that made no sense pull me up on it please."

Communicate specifically and involve your team

When talking with your team, stick to specifics. Dr Khristin Highet suggests: "Right guys over the last month I've really noticed that I've having to split my time and my focus on tasks such as this and this whilst at the same time wanting to dedicate time to this and this to better support you all."

Show that you value their input: "I really value the strengths within the team and this is an opportunity for the team to use strengths to help things to become a little bit more streamlined or efficient. Be human. I'm really needing some help here it would be great if we could put our heads together and come up with some ideas or processes or how we can divvy things up."

The leadership benefits of being human

Nick points out that openness actually boosts respect: "I would hope that the team would respect you for that more." It can also encourage others to share their struggles and ask for help.

Dr Khristin Highet adds: "What's very very good about psychological safety is that this has a direct link with high performing teams so the more psychological safety we can cultivate and build the more that your team is going to perform."

When you need additional support

If stress is becoming too much, don't hesitate to seek professional support. There are times when challenges need more than we can handle alone.

For immediate crisis support or to find professional mental health services, visit our help resources for 24/7 support lines and services in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, US, and Ireland.

How NNC Circles can provide ongoing support

Want regular support from people who understand your world? NNC Circles are small, confidential peer groups for creatives. You can share your challenges, learn practical coping strategies, and get support from others facing the same leadership pressures.

You're not alone in this

Leading a team while managing your own stress is tough, but you don't have to do it alone. By being honest, inviting your team into the solution, and creating psychological safety, you're not just easing your load, you're building a stronger, more connected team.

Remember: the best leaders aren't the ones who never struggle. They're the ones who are real, ask for help, and create environments where everyone can thrive.

‍