Leading and managing are hard work even under the best of circumstances. Having to make difficult judgments on a regular basis is difficult because individuals are complicated and our business challenges are becoming increasingly complex.
“As a leader, I need to be strong all the time and always strive to be the best.”
Sound familiar? I used to believe in that, thinking that as a leader, I must never show any vulnerability.
But is it possible to persevere and stay focus despite the current environment, despite the evident signs of stress from many people who have grown sick of the strains of their jobs?
Yes, it is possible.
One thing I noticed is that those who are succeeding: They take care of themselves. They find a way to pause, reflect, and recharge that works for them. Then come back for another round and continue to solve problems by being their best self as a leader.
So how to integrate self-care into your daily routine to recharge?
A few ideas to help:
#1. Make It Your Own
Recharge is as unique as the person who engages in it, and as a result, it can take numerous forms.
When it comes to rejuvenation, ask yourself how do you best like to re-change: with people or by yourself? (NLP rejuvenation meta-programs: introvert or extrovert).
Introvert is the one who re-charges his batteries by getting off by himself— meditating, taking a walk in nature, working on a puzzle, reading, listening to music, etc. The extrovert is the person who re-charges her batteries by getting with people, going out on the town, dancing, joining a club or sports group, going out to a party, etc.
So, ask yourself do you recharge by spending time alone or by socializing with people? Once you figured that out, decide what works for you and where you get your energy from.
#2. Take Short Breaks
A lot of meetings in the morning or an afternoon slump might make you tired at some point during the day. You’ll need a break.
Short breaks can give you a big boost.
Meditate, go for a walk, read a book, phone a friend, listen to music or simply do nothing.
Your break should be all about you. When you take a break, your main goal should be to get your mind back in shape.
#3. Make Room in Your Schedule for It
Make your plans official by scheduling them in your calendar! Setting an alarm for 10 minutes every day and deciding on a new self-care activity to try out within each time block is a good way to begin if you aren’t sure exactly what you want to accomplish.
Done is better than perfection. After you’ve started, consider what’s working for you and what you might want to tweak or add to your daily routine. You can also draw inspiration from your coworkers and friends. If something they’re doing sounds appealing to you, borrow it and make it your own.
Done is better than perfection. After you’ve started, consider what’s working for you and what you might want to tweak or add to your daily routine. You can also draw inspiration from your coworkers and friends. If something they’re doing sounds appealing to you, borrow it and make it your own.
Self-care Starts with You
In many ways, self-care can help you become a better person, a better leader, and a happier and healthier person. If you want to become the best version of yourself and inspire others to do the same, you need to spend time taking care of your own health and well-being.
Curated by Danielle Tan.
Reference:
- [Certified_meta-coach] 2022 Morpheus #20 Let Me Rejuvenate First by L. Michael Hall, Ph.D.
- https://hbr.org/2020/10/serious-leaders-need-self-care-too
