How The Boss Influences Health and Performance
Numerous studies highlight the relationship between a boss’s effectiveness and team performance, yet did you know that a good boss can also boost longevity? Indeed, a remarkable Swedish study tracking 3,122 men over 10 years found that those with considerate, proactive bosses had a lower incidence of heart attacks. Dr. Anna Nyberg, a co-author of the study, noted that staying with good bosses for at least four years reduced heart attack risks by 39%. This compelling evidence underscores the profound impact a boss can have—not just on your career but on your health.
Considering this, how can you ensure your boss is as effective as possible? Navigating the dynamics of this relationship may not always be straightforward, particularly with challenging leaders, yet enhancing your boss’s effectiveness can significantly reduce stress and improve workplace satisfaction.
Dr. Robert Hogan, a seasoned personality-assessment expert, reveals that across multiple studies spanning over five decades in cities like Baltimore and London, a staggering 75% of diverse workers cited their interaction with their immediate supervisor as the most stressful job aspect. Furthermore, Gallup surveys over the past 30 years, involving over 100,000 employees, consistently indicate that supervisors have a more significant impact on engagement and performance than any other factor. With 56% of disengaged employees attributing their dissatisfaction to poor leadership, it’s evident: employees don’t quit jobs—they quit bad bosses.
However, effective bosses foster environments that breed satisfaction, leading to better retention rates, productivity, and profitability. The way you interact with direct reports or your superior creates a ripple effect that permeates company culture and performance.
How, then, can you assist your boss in excelling at their role? Reflecting on and devising strategies to support your boss can be invaluable. When their actions influence your work-life quality and even health, it’s worthwhile to explore ways to contribute to their success. Can some bosses be coached and supported to be better leaders? The stakes are considerably high, affecting not just professional satisfaction but overall well-being.
Creator of the KASHBOX: Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits
Helping You Realize Your Potential
I help people discover their potential, expand and develop the skills and attitudes necessary to achieve a higher degree of personal and professional success and create a plan that enables them to balance the profit motives of their business with the personal motives of their lives.
