At some point, each of us encounters challenging times—whether it’s a health crisis, the loss of a loved one, financial strain, divorce, or the demands of caring for a sick child or elderly parent. These experiences can upend life without warning, impacting our ability to focus and perform at work.

Your employees will face any one (or more) of these difficulties as well. As a leader, how can you genuinely support them? Ignoring the issue or hoping they’ll “get better” on their own isn’t the answer. Instead, resolve to lead from the heart.

Here are four practical ways leaders can offer meaningful support:

1. Acknowledge and Show Kindness
Start by recognizing the employee’s situation with empathy. A simple acknowledgment from you will make all the difference. You don’t have to solve their problem; just extend genuine compassion. This small act shows the employee that you, and the company, care.

2. Provide a Safe, Confidential Space
Offer a private and respectful environment where they can share what they’re going through if they wish. As appropriate, it can be helpful to remind them of resources available to them. If your company has an EAP (Employee Assistance Plan), be sure they know how to access this benefit.

3. Review Leave Options and Flexible Work Arrangements
If your company offers paid or unpaid leave, make sure the employee is aware of these options. Consider discussing the possibility of temporarily lightening their workload or, if applicable, arranging a temporary work-from-home setup to help them manage during this time.

4. Emphasize Understanding Over Solutions
Your employee isn’t expecting you to fix their personal challenges. What they value most is understanding and a bit of grace. Knowing they have support at work can help them manage their situation more effectively and feel appreciated.

The Impact on Your Workplace Culture
Supporting employees through life’s inevitable “valley periods” fosters a culture of compassion and trust for all. Colleagues notice these gestures, and that will strengthen the team’s overall morale and create a workplace where people know they matter.

When we lead with the values of kindness, understanding, and compassion, we create a stronger, more resilient, and more successful workplace for everyone.