Stress Awareness Month

April is Stress Awareness Month, and after taking a much-needed vacation in Japan, I’ve been reminded of something essential:

Recovery isn’t a luxury—it’s a leadership skill.

As founders and CEOs, we carry a unique kind of weight.
The constant decision-making. The pressure to perform. The sense that we always need to be “on.” Even for the most resilient among us, that load takes a toll.

Here’s the truth:
Stress isn’t the enemy.

It’s often a signal that we’re playing big—that we care deeply and are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The key isn’t to eliminate stress. It’s to learn how to work with it, to use it as fuel, and know when to pull back and recover.

Here’s what I’ve found most impactful on my own journey:

✅ Regulating my nervous system
Deep breathing, mindfulness, and especially movement help me shift from reactivity to intentional decision-making—especially when the stakes are high.

✅ Reframing stress as a challenge
Some of my biggest breakthroughs came from moments of discomfort. I’ve learned to view stress not as a threat, but as a teacher—a way to refine my approach.

✅ Leaning on support systems
Leadership is not meant to be a solo sport. Whether it’s a coach, mentors, peer groups, or trusted advisors, having people to reflect with is crucial. That’s why I run executive and men’s groups—because we all need space to process, grow, and recharge.

✅ Prioritizing recovery
My sharpest thinking and best decisions come when I’m well-rested. Time off isn’t indulgent—it’s strategic. Just like elite athletes, founders need recovery to sustain high performance.

Stress and recovery are two sides of the same coin.
The most effective leaders I know don’t avoid stress—they build the capacity to carry it well.

So I’m curious:
What are your go-to strategies for managing stress and recovering with intention?