top of page
Writer's pictureTiffany Costello

It’s not hard, it’s overwhelming. There's a difference.


In the intricate tapestry of life, many endeavors may seem daunting, not because they are inherently difficult, but because they can be overwhelming. Take welding for instance—a craft that appears incredibly challenging to the untrained eye. While there is undoubtedly an art to welding that takes years to master, the basics, like joining two pieces of metal, are probably not as hard as they initially seem.


This realization parallels a lesson learned early in my career, during my foray into real estate. Faced with a fixer-upper straight from the 1970s, complete with fuzzy wallpaper, linoleum floors and a mustard colored oven, I embarked on a journey to transform the space into something a bit more modern, albeit a little less groovy. With more time than money, I operated on the mindset that if others could do it, then I could learn.


I bought the home 2 years before YouTube launched and offered quick tutorials on anything. At the time of this writing, Google offers over 10.8 million videos when you search, “learn to weld”.  With no YouTube to lean on, I attended in-person classes on how to install tile, often studied a giant hardcover Lowe's book and made countless calls to my Dad seeking his guidance. Of course I made mistakes. One should never demo BOTH bathrooms in the house simultaneously even if you aren't living there. I don't miss those bucket days but it serves as a funny memory and valuable lesson.


The key takeaway from these experiences is the understanding that most things in life, including leadership, can be less about inherent difficulty and more about managing overwhelm. Just as I demystified the seemingly complex task of home renovation through learning and perseverance, leaders can apply a similar mindset to their roles.


Leadership is not necessarily hard; it can be overwhelming when faced with multifaceted challenges. The art lies in simplifying complexities, breaking them down into manageable tasks, and seeking the right guidance. Much like learning to weld, taking the time to acquire the right skills and knowledge can transform a seemingly difficult task into an achievable goal.


In the business world, overwhelm often arises when leaders are confronted with intricate problems or unfamiliar territories. The solution lies in acknowledging that, like any craft, leadership requires continuous learning and adaptability. Stello Strategies understands the nuances of leadership, offering curated consulting to guide businesses through the overwhelming landscape and help them simplify challenges.


If you find yourself navigating overwhelming leadership scenarios, consider scheduling a complimentary discovery call with Stello Strategies. Let us assist you in breaking down complexities, offering insights, and providing a tailored approach to leadership that transforms challenges into opportunities for growth and success.

bottom of page