What are the best self-care practices for Strategy professionals?

I'd say the ability to say no, to delegate and to create healthy boundaries are all key to managing your time and energy. Sometimes it can feel challenging, or almost enticing to take on one more task or project. But if these are not aligned with your priorities, it's important to say no and maybe delegate to another team member who had the bandwidth to do it. On the boundaries, minimizing distractions on live communication tools, and being vigilant about declining meeting invites can be powerful ways to get some time back so you can focus on what really matters and stay on track.

Strategies related to managing your time and energy should come naturally to a Strategy Professional. In principle embracing professional self-care boils down to: 1. Keep work time and personal time separate. 2. Stay organized. 3. Take breaks during the day. Make sure you are taking time to step away from the stresses of your job, and 4, Constantly evaluate your workload.

Strategy is a marathon, not a sprint. Prioritize tasks that align with your core objectives. Learn to delegate effectively. Keep energy reserves for critical thinking and decision-making moments. Wisdom and insight come from reflection. You have to deliberately create the time and space for that.

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. View setbacks not as failures, but as learning experiences. This mindset is key in navigating the evolving strategic landscape. Ask yourself, "What can this situation teach me?"

Strategy thrives on collaboration and diverse perspectives. Build a network of mentors and peers for support and fresh ideas. A good strategist knows the value of collective wisdom. Who in your network challenges and inspires you?

Taking care of your body must be a strategic imperative for you. Here are a couple of self-care examples that will make a significant difference in both your physical and mental healthcare: 1. getting enough sleep. 2. eating healthy food. 3. going for a walk. 4. drinking plenty of water. 5. practicing good personal hygiene, and 6. taking a relaxing bath.

Physical health is crucial for mental sharpness. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest fuel your strategic thinking. Think of it as investing in your body to boost your professional performance.

Keep your mind agile. Engage in activities that stimulate creativity and innovation. Read widely, explore new concepts, and take time for reflective thinking. How do you sharpen your mental acuity outside of work?

I love this tip because when working with Strategy it can feel like it's always changing and never ending. It can feel overwhelming to have large, on going projects that always seem to have one last phase. Taking time to look how far you have come, to celebrate each milestone with your team, can go a long way in ensuring people stay motivated and energized throughout the length of the work you set out to do.

This is already a great list. Some additions: -Force vacations and breaks, and make sure to disengage from work during this time. -Keep time for learning (industry trends, new frameworks, client business, etc.). Carve time put of your work, or else it will only add to stress. - Mental health...burnout and stress is the biggest hurdle in your growth and longevity. Find ways to keep your mental model elated. Yoga, meditation, music, mindfulness...whatever works! -don't neglect friends and family. It's often a regret amongst consulting folks. Not one to replace! -Finally make sure you are enjoying the role and are happy, or else it's time to change.

Effective self-care for strategy professionals goes beyond relaxation. It involves adept time management, establishing clear boundaries, and developing the ability to decline additional commitments when necessary. Prioritize tasks decisively, set life-work boundaries, and focus on safeguarding your time and energy for genuine self-care rather than mere moments of relaxation.

Somewhere in the term 'self-care' is the implicit bias of a 'wound' or an 'injury' (that's occurred or to prevent). And, most likely, it's injuries to your EGO that hurt the most. My friend, @Jeff Hunter, gave me the best advice here: "Give yourself the grace that you were doing the best you could at the moment." He talks a lot about how you are more than your professional identity (<-say that out loud!). That mindset shift alone moves mountains. @Dan Cable (London Business School) also has much to say about finding your 'best-self' (minimizes 'injury' exposure). As does @Adam Grant on 'work-life' ('rhythm'). Finally, check out @Alex Liu and what he says about 'joy' (at work, in life, gifting to others). Like for LLMs, remember to breathe!

Unconventional methods can be a game-changer. Don't shy away from exploring new methodologies or technologies. Stay curious and experiment. Try. Test. Trial. Your next big strategic breakthrough could come from where you least expect it. What's the most unconventional method you've tried lately?