Day 1-6: Mental Resilience for Leaders in Disaster | Jolie Wills
Channel: After The Fire USA
Date: 08/11/2023

In times of disaster, leaders bear the weight of responsibility on their shoulders. They are expected to make difficult decisions, keep a calm demeanor, and guide their teams through chaos. However, amidst the chaos, it is crucial for leaders to prioritize their own well-being and practice mental resilience. Taking care of oneself is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and foresight. By setting an example of self-care, leaders can ensure that they are operating at their full potential and making sound decisions while also empowering their teams and creating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.
As someone who struggled with prioritizing her own well-being in her leadership role, Jolie Wills, the CEO of Americas at Hummngly, believes that it is critical to sustain leaders and empower them to have the greatest positive impact. As a cognitive scientist, Jolie understands the impacts of prolonged stress on cognitive performance and decision-making. Her own experience surviving the earthquakes also gave her valuable first-hand knowledge of leading through the long recovery process.
Listen in as Jolie outlines the four key challenges in disaster recovery: empowering disaster-affected people, helping agencies aid recovery effectively, preventing burnout for those working in disasters, and making it easier for leaders carrying a heavy burden. She also provides tools and resources to help leaders prioritize self-care even during stressful times.