Leaders Need Self-Care TOO!

No matter your role in your company, schedules are always hectic. Add in the responsibility as a leader and there is no doubt your plate is full leaving little, to no time, for the activities you enjoy most! Taking care of others may come as second nature for many leaders, but are you also taking care of yourself? Taking care of ourselves keeps us grounded, balanced, and helps maintain our overall well-being. It’s time to practice what you preach and ensure you are leading by example, making your own self-care a priority! So, what does this really mean? By definition, self-care is “the practice of taking action to preserve or improve one’s own health.” Self-care is not a one and done, rather daily work towards becoming a part of your everyday life. It involves activities that are essential to remain in good physical and emotional health. Your nutrition, hygiene, physical activity, and medical appointments should be a priority to best manage our health. Although self-care looks different for everyone, the benefit is always the same — improved overall health and well-being.

Your WHY!

Research shows, it is making and taking time for hobbies is a great way to decompress and neglecting to do so allows stress to kick in, causing issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and more. Working on yourself will help you relax, foster resilience, boost self-esteem, minimize burnout, reduce anxiety, improve your mental health, and promote healthier relationships. When you treat your self-care like you would treat a meeting at work, it now becomes a priority and employees understand the value of taking time to work on their wellbeing!

So… Let’s Get Started With These Tips

• Take Your Own Advice: What would you tell someone if they asked you how to handle stress? Think about the advice you might give and follow that yourself!
• Push Through Change: Resisting change is normal. Push through what is uncomfortable and explore self-care activities that work best for you!
• Big or Small — Make Time for YOU: Self-care doesn’t need to be drawn out or take up a ton of time on your calendar. You can take “mini-moments” in your day to focus on you! Journal for five minutes at the beginning of your day, take small breaks to stretch, go for a walk during your lunch break or listen to an audiobook during your commute to work!
• Be Kind to Yourself: Your needs will change over time and what you need or enjoy this year, may change next year! Be flexible and embrace change by trying new activities that fit your life at that moment.
• Share What Works: Do you have tips or ways that work for you to take time for yourself? Spread the word! Your employees will appreciate the thought and example you are showing for them to prioritize their own wellbeing!
• Reflection: Whether you write it down or dedicate time to “think,” take time to reflect on your day. What went well? What could have improved? Think about how you could handle certain situations differently to prepare you for next time.

Showing your team that you are prioritizing your mental and emotional wellbeing by practicing self-care is a great way to lead your team. They will feel comfortable following your example and soon your culture will be more productive, happier, and healthier!