Leadership is no easy feat, and anyone who’s ever steered the ship knows that it’s an endeavour that often demands more than it gives. But here’s a secret: to lead others effectively, you’ve got to lead yourself first. Maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing is the cornerstone of great leadership. With that in mind, let’s dive into five handy, friendly, and practical tips to keep those leadership muscles strong, both in mind and body.
Embrace the Magic of Movement
Our first stop on this wellbeing journey lands us in the realm of physical fitness. Sure, you might be doing mental gymnastics every day, but that’s no replacement for the good old-fashioned kind. Regular exercise is not just about keeping you in shape; it’s about pumping oxygen to your brain, enhancing your mood, and relieving stress. But this doesn’t mean you need to sign up for a marathon. Find something you enjoy, whether it’s a morning jog, lunchtime yoga, or an after-work dance class. The goal is to get that heart pumping, the endorphins flowing, and remember – the only bad workout is the one you didn’t do!
Feed your body, fuel your leadership
Next up: nutrition. There’s a reason they call it “brain food.” What you eat has a direct impact on your energy levels, cognitive functioning, and overall health. As a leader, you need to be at your best. Ensure you’re consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. And hey, don’t forget to hydrate! Water is a wonder-drink that aids in digestion, circulation, and keeps your brain ticking along nicely.
Give it a rest, Seriously
Leadership isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon, and even the most seasoned runners need to rest. Adequate sleep isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. When you skimp on sleep, you’re not just waking up with under-eye bags, you’re compromising your decision-making skills, emotional intelligence, and creativity. It’s simple: good leaders prioritize good sleep. Make your bedroom a sanctuary free from work-related materials, set a regular sleep schedule, and consider introducing a winding-down routine to help ease into sleep.
Mindfulness: It’s not just for Monks
Mindfulness is the secret weapon of many successful leaders. By practicing mindfulness, leaders can stay present, focused, and non-judgmental, even in the face of daily stresses. This doesn’t mean you need to find the nearest mountaintop and start chanting. Mindfulness can be practiced through meditation, mindful eating, or simply taking a few minutes to focus on your breathing. It’s about finding moments of calm in the chaos.
You’re human, not superhuman
Finally, remember that even leaders are allowed to be human. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you need to have all the answers, all the time. But no one is infallible, and everyone needs support sometimes. Don’t hesitate to reach out to others for help when you need it. Talk to a trusted mentor, seek professional counseling, or simply confide in a friend. And never forget, it’s okay to take a mental health day when you need it.
Being a leader is about more than just calling the shots. It’s about showing up every day, ready to guide, support, and inspire. But to do that effectively, you need to keep your physical and mental wellbeing in check. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t just good for you; it’s good for everyone who looks to you for leadership. So, lace up those sneakers, fill up that water bottle, get some shut eye.
Cheryl MacDonald is a yoga and meditation master and founder of YogaBellies. She is the author of a new book giving advice to women on how to get through the menopause calledYogaPause – what women need to know after 40 and why yoga is the answer. It gives women practical, down-to-earth and fact-based advice on how to overcome challenges when approaching the menopause and embrace the changes they are experiencing.
YogaPause – what women need to know after 40 and why yoga is the answer is available from Amazon for £14.97 – YogaPause: What Women Need To Know After 40 And Why Yoga Is The Answer: Amazon.co.uk: Kennedy MacDonald, Cheryl: 9798379345297: Books
