Psychological safety isn’t a program or policy, it’s a culture built from the top down and the inside out.
That means the way we lead matters. The way we look after ourselves matters even more.
At our recent RRJC event, Dr Tom Hannan (Psychologist & Director, Evolve Wellbeing Psychology) shared powerful insights into how leaders can create safer, more supportive workplaces, starting with their own wellbeing.
Why This Matters
Psychological safety is essential for team performance, well-being and retention.
But it doesn’t begin with your team – it begins with you.
When leaders are burnt out or disconnected, safety suffers.
Here’s 6 ways to shift that.
1. Check In With Yourself First
Am I coping? What am I ignoring?
Burnout in leaders can show up as irritability, poor decisions or emotional shutdown.
📝 Use mood tracking or regular check-ins with a mentor.
📌 If you’re not okay, that’s the first priority — not a failure.
2. Model Healthy Work Habits
Leadership sets the tone.
If you never take leave, send emails at midnight or skip breaks, your team will too.
💡 Set boundaries. Honour your own rest.
That’s not weakness — it’s leadership.
3. Create Space for Real Conversations
Ask: “How are you really doing this week?”
🧏♂️ Give people time. Be fully present.
Avoid brushing concerns off — just listen.
That’s what builds psychological safety.
4. Lead With Vulnerability
You don’t need all the answers.
Say: “I’m finding this hard too” or “I got that wrong — let’s learn from it.”
💬 Vulnerability builds trust. Trust builds resilience.
5. Be Proactive About Workload
Stress grows from unrealistic deadlines and unclear roles.
🎯 Help your team by reviewing workloads, adjusting goals, and saying “no” to unnecessary pressure.
Clarity is kindness
6. Use the Support Available to You
Use EAP. Talk to a psychologist or coach. Lean into your network.
Leaders who are supported lead better.
That’s how safe workplaces are built — and sustained.
This Is How We Lead Better
Psychological safety isn’t just a concept — it’s a practice.
Start with yourself. Lead with intention.
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