Project Management

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Have you felt the loneliness of project leadership?

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Mayte Mata Sivera PMO Leader | Speaker | Author Ut, United States

I’m exploring a potential article or bigger project around the emotional side of stepping into leadership roles in project management.
When I moved into a director role, I didn’t expect how isolating it could feel. The shift in relationships, the pressure to always appear “strong”...none of that was in the playbook.
1 - Have you experienced this kind of shift?
2 - How did you navigate it?
3 - What helped you stay connected and grounded?
I’d love to hear your thoughts or stories.
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Mayte Mata Sivera PMO Leader | Speaker | Author Ut, United States
Apr 21, 2025 9:35 AM
Replying to Eduard Hernandez
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Great topic and insightful comments so far.

One challenge I’ve often faced as a leader is finding the right balance between being assertive and not coming across as a pushover. Leadership puts us in the spotlight—we’re expected to maintain a high level of professionalism while staying connected to the human side of the business.

Feelings of isolation can become especially pronounced during high-pressure moments, such as in the lead-up to a high-stakes go-live. While staying true to oneself and maintaining a strong professional presence might not eliminate that sense of loneliness, it can help mitigate the impact of setbacks or unforeseen events.

At the end of the day, no one is perfect—we all make mistakes. That’s why humility and accountability are essential traits of a truly grounded and authentic leader.
Eduard Hernandez thank you for your comment! Agree no one is perfect!
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Mayte Mata Sivera PMO Leader | Speaker | Author Ut, United States
Apr 21, 2025 11:17 AM
Replying to Kwiyuh Michael Wepngong
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someone once said "It is lonely at the top"
May be the reality too in project management
@Kwiyuh thank you for your comment! Yes, it is a reality in project management too.
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Verónica Elizabeth Pozo Ruiz RYLAI Access Control Quito, Pichincha, Ecuador
A leadership position can bring feelings of loneliness, as one person is in charge, serving as a guide for others, and always displaying self-control and calm under any circumstances.
However, leading a team doesn't mean we should remain individualistic. We can establish connections and contact not only with other leaders, who may share similar experiences; but also with team members, external stakeholders, clients, and company staff. Listening to different people's stories helps us broaden our vision and perspective, greatly enriching us.
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