In today’s demanding corporate landscape, leaders are constantly under pressure to meet tight deadlines, manage multiple projects, and guide their teams through complex challenges. Yet, the best leaders know how to thrive in high-pressure roles without sacrificing their well-being. Bren James Manlangit, a seasoned finance professional and Certified Management Accountant (Australia), shares how he navigates these demands and provides actionable leadership strategies to maintain balance. As told to Financial Adviser PH, Bren’s methods center on prioritization, strategic delegation, and maintaining mental and physical health.
For Bren, success in a high-pressure environment starts with effective task management. “I stay effective by prioritizing my tasks, maintaining a calm demeanor, and actually dressing properly helps me a lot,” he shares. Staying organized and focused, according to Bren, is key when balancing the weight of leadership responsibilities. These habits ensure that he can remain productive and calm under stress, setting the tone for his entire team.
Bren’s leadership success also comes from his ability to break down complex problems into digestible tasks. “I rely on my ability to break down complex issues into manageable steps and delegate effectively,” he adds. A critical moment came when he led a global project that required managing multi-country reporting for Asia Pacific. Despite the looming deadlines and multiple moving parts, Bren’s meticulous planning and delegation skills allowed him to guide the project to successful completion, on time.
But managing high-pressure roles is not just about professional performance—it’s also about safeguarding personal time. Bren believes in drawing clear boundaries between work and life. “I set clear boundaries and prioritize my time effectively,” he explains. By using tools like calendars, planners, and apps to organize his daily activities, he ensures that his personal time is respected. Bren further emphasizes the importance of recharging. “I make time for activities that recharge me, such as traveling, hanging out with my friends and families, and eating good food outside.”
By prioritizing mental health, delegation, and strategic planning, Bren exemplifies that it’s possible to succeed in demanding leadership roles without compromising work-life balance.
