As Brené Brown says, “If you want to avoid burnout, stop living like you’re on fire.”
Our best intentions can sometimes be derailed while navigating life’s challenges, and sometimes, our navigating needs to be recalibrated…frequently. The wind changes direction unexpectedly, and we have to pause, adjust our course, and reset the sails.
I experienced some unexpected setbacks over the past two months, compelling me to slow down and focus on my self-care. While some time off was necessary, I had to substitute what I should do with what I needed. For about 6 weeks, I reduced my hours by almost half. I’ve been intentional about scheduling rest and restorative activities for healing. By working less, my energy shifted…and my business grew! Of course, working part-time isn’t sustainable long-term, however, I discovered how restorative those occasional pauses are – the beautiful summer months are certainly an ideal time to take some breaks!
As business leaders, we’re typically striving for work-life balance, yet we don’t always pay attention to the signs that we’re ‘overdoing.’ According to the Harvard Business Review, identifying these symptoms early is key to addressing them effectively.
To achieve a balanced approach to life: prioritizing mental, emotional, and physical well-being, as well as sustainable career success, the most potent strategy is enlisting the right support. As Forbes highlights, it’s about knowing when to hire an executive assistant. Bringing in innovative help can be the ‘game-changer.’
An executive assistant provides collaborative support to increase time efficiency and productivity, bringing focus to the activities that drive your business forward. This strategic approach reduces stress and elevates well-being. I find just a few practical steps help me regain a sense of harmony (and I rely on my executive assistant heavily).
Here are a few practical steps to help you regain control:
-Prioritize Tasks: Identify the most critical tasks and focus on them first, and explore your relationship with perfectionism, which can make tasks feel more important, or bigger, than they are. Know when remind yourself that “Done is better than perfect.” Ask yourself what the quest for perfectionism is costing you. I have to keep myself in check, as I identify as a recovering perfectionist.
-Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Ensure you allocate time for rest and recreation to recharge.
-Delegate Wisely: Delegate tasks that others can handle, freeing up your time for strategic decision-making. As yourself, “What are the highest value tasks that only I can do?” Items that don’t fall within that answer can be taught and/or delegated.
-Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve focus. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can be incredibly beneficial; even just sitting outdoors for a few minutes enjoying sunlight on your face is something I love to do.
Let’s work together. As always, I’m here to support you on your leadership journey.
