Top 5 Strategies and Resources to Help Managers Turn Stress into Strength.

At Go Slow to Go Fast we know that stepping into a leadership role can be overwhelming, but managing stress effectively is key to success. We want to help new managers navigate workplace stress using practical strategies to boost decision-making, collaboration, and motivation while minimising workplace tension.

Whether you're struggling with disengaged employees, slow decision-making, or low creativity, these actionable insights will help you lead with confidence and build a thriving, high-performing team.

The Control and Influence Model

Stress often stems from trying to control the uncontrollable. Start by breaking challenges into three categories:

• What can you control?

• What can you influence?

• What’s outside your control?

Focusing on the first two categories reduces frustration and directs efforts toward productive action. For instance, if your team is facing an organisational restructuring, you might not control the changes, but you can influence how your team responds and adapts.

Resource: This brilliantly simple video from the Red Cross explains how to do it.

Empathy Over Judgment

Stress can trigger self-protective behaviours, such as withdrawal or defensiveness. Instead of jumping to conclusions, approach these reactions with empathy and curiosity. For example, if a team member misses a deadline, take time to understand the underlying stressors. Empathy builds trust and opens the door to meaningful solutions.

Prioritise Connection and Support

Moments of genuine connection remind your team they’re not navigating challenges alone. Regular check-ins, whether informal chats or structured one-to-ones, create space for open dialogue. Consistency is key. Showing up with calmness and care helps model the steadiness you want to see across the team.

Resource: Use this check-in generator if you’re stuck on what question to open your team meeting with.

Focus on Willingness, Not Perfection

Perfection is rarely achievable, but a willingness to grow and adapt drives progress. Support team members who demonstrate a readiness to improve, even if they stumble along the way. Celebrate small wins to reinforce their efforts and build confidence.

Resource: This talk by researcher Carol Dweck at the School of Life gives helpful context on this approach.

Create Space for Open Dialogue

Transparency fosters trust. Encourage team members to voice concerns and brainstorm solutions collaboratively. For example, if workload distribution feels uneven, facilitate a team discussion to explore how tasks can be better balanced. These conversations not only reduce stress but also strengthen team cohesion.

Resource: Explore Hyper Island's Toolbox  for simple workshops you can run with your team.