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Crucible moments faced by admired leaders in high-pressure industries
Potential case study topics in 2025
01
“I love my team but a few colleagues talk nonstop about politics - and it’s clear my values don’t fully align with theirs - and it’s starting to cause tension.”
02
“When I get home, it’s hard for me to decompress or stop thinking about work. To be honest, I haven’t had a good night sleep in weeks. How do other professionals, also in high-pressure careers deal with it?”
03
“I have a mental health challenge that sometimes impacts my work performance. Should I speak up, or just keep grinding away?"
04
“Law school trained me how to identify and avoid risks. But as i gain leadership responsibility I need to venture into the unknown. How do other smart people deal with anxiety when taking uncomfortable risks?"
05
“I am proud of our startup’s mission and growth trajectory. But for the first time ever our financial valuation has gone down, and I am starting to question my own worth and self-image.”
06
“What is the connection between physical health and mental well-being? I don't doubt my physiology impacts focus, stamina, and creativity at work - but have no idea how to make improvements.”
07
"Sometimes I make tough decisions in an ethical gray zone - with no clear right or wrong answer. How do other professionals - in high pressure careers - deal with it?”
08
“Business has been booming for several years now, but I feel like a slowdown is imminent. For the first time ever, I feel stressed I won’t hit financial targets and I don’t want to disappoint my boss - or myself”
09
“I love the way our office celebrates big wins. But I’m not much of an alcohol drinker and certainly don’t do drugs. But I'm starting to feel the pressure to fit in.”
10
“I’m delighted our company was bought by a prestigious private equity firm. But now there seems to be constant pressure to hit performance targets which can be emotionally exhausting.”
11
“I’ve worked hard for many years and it’s finally time to take the next big step to partner. But ’m starting to feel imposter syndrome, promotion related anxiety, and self doubt. It’s not healthy.”
12
“I always go above and beyond the call of duty when serving clients. But a few aren’t very nice. And our biggest client can be emotionally abusive at times. For now I'm just staying quiet, but wonder how others have dealt with it."
13
‘Lately I’ve noticed that my personal identity goes beyond being a ‘workaholic’ to feeling totally lost. I’ve heard of a phenomenon called work 'enmeshment' but didn’t think it would impact me personally."
14
“There’s no doubt i have a fear of failure. Sometimes it’s motivating, but often times the drive to succeed at all costs causes achievement trauma and emotional instability."
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