Slowing down is one of life's best performance hacks. Unfortunately, it's also one of the most overlooked practices in our modern world.
If you've ever watched Netflix or Hulu and something flashes on the screen, and someone next to you says, “What was that?” You rewind it and play it again… but you still can't see it. Then, you put it on half-speed, and suddenly everybody can see what flew across the screen. It was a ghost. It was a monster. It was a book. It was whatever… right?
When you slow down, you see more. And when you do the same thing with your mind and soul, by slowing your thoughts and body down, it's amazing how much more perceptive you can be.
Making time for self-care in a busy leadership role may seem challenging, but it is essential for long-term success and fulfillment.
Today, we want to share a few practical strategies to manage self-care without feeling guilty.
Start Small
If you're feeling overwhelmed and unable to carve out large chunks of time, begin with small acts of self-care. Taking a few mindful breaths before a meeting, appreciating moments of joy, or jotting down positive experiences can significantly impact your well-being.
Define Your Boundaries
Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid overextending yourself and make time for activities that nourish you. Maybe you say “no” to that cookout you don’t really want to go to. Or perhaps you delegate a project to another employee who is suited for the job. Prioritize self-care just as you would prioritize any other important task.
Schedule Self-Care
Block out time on your calendar for self-care activities, whether it's spending time in nature, meditating, or pursuing a hobby. Treat these appointments with yourself as non-negotiable.
Reflect on Your Purpose
Regularly reflect on your purpose and personal mission as a leader. Engage in activities that align with your passions and bring you joy. Remember that self-care is not just about relaxation but also about fulfilling your true desires.
Most of the clients and leaders we work with come to us looking for the opposite of what we’re proposing in these acts of self-care. They think they need to be twice as active, always on, always thinking and doing and moving. Well, you can be twice as productive by slowing yourself down. Real self-care is having time to be blank, to be open to new things, and to be present, spending time in reflection.
Once you step back and allow yourself to embrace your inner desires and give others on your team the power to embrace their own desires, you pave the way toward success in your life and your organization.