The life of a CEO can be a lonely one, with about one out of every three CEOs feeling isolated at some point in their career. The feeling of loneliness can lead to overthinking and losing perspective on the competitive landscape of the company. The symptoms of being in this “jar” include feeling that tasks seem smaller, focusing more on internal issues in meetings, and feeling like the company is not moving fast enough.
To get out of the jar, a CEO must first admit the problem and recognize that it is limiting their vision. Returning to the company’s values and purpose can help re-center the CEO’s vision and focus. Asking questions like, “What is our company’s relative advantage?” and defining the company’s value and reason for engagement can provide clarity on how to move forward. Questioning everything, from internal meetings to external impact, can help shift the focus outward.
Once a CEO is out of the jar, the challenge is to stay out by maintaining an external focus and celebrating wins within the company. Encouraging outside-in thinking at all levels of the organization and rewarding employees for innovative ideas can help create a culture of progress and success. It’s important for CEOs to recognize when they are in the jar and take steps to pivot out as soon as possible, even if it means breaking the glass.
Whether a CEO is new to the role or a seasoned veteran, facing stagnation or low energy in the business can be a sign of being in the jar. By taking the time to assess their current state and implementing strategies to shift focus outward, CEOs can ensure that their company continues to thrive and succeed. It’s essential to prioritize getting out of the jar, no matter the cost, in order to maintain a competitive edge in the ever-changing business landscape.
