How can you keep that holiday feeling?

As the schools goes back and the carefree days of summer and holidays ease back into a busier routine……

It’s natural to wish we could hang on to the warmth, the spontaneity, fun and that easygoing vibe a little longer.?

Fingers crossed for late summer weather. The weather in September in UK can be incredible and feels such a gift and an added bonus! ??

For me, this summer was especially meaningful.?

Without carping on about it too much….....??????......

My surgery in July really put things into perspective…..

It challenged me in ways I hadn’t expected.?

It taught me so much about the need for resilience, what it it really means, how important trust is, and what it means to be a leader of ourselves.

Also it has demonstrated to me that it’s not only authentic to practice what we preach……it’s vital!?

My daughter Rodena and I have just been lucky enough to spend a week in Lanzarote......

3rd time lucky after having to cancel earlier planned trips over the spring and summer due to my investigations and surgery.

My wonderful surgeon gave his consent for me to travel short haul now all biopsies have confirmed I am clear of leukaemia - phew and so blessed.

So, how do we keep that summer feeling alive, not just in our personal lives but in the way we lead?

1. Embrace Resilience Through Challenges

Summer often teaches us to go with the flow, to embrace and relish the unexpected…?

We can become less rigid in our routine as the days stretch out with light summer evenings, rain or shine!?

My surgery in July was a profound reminder of this.?

It forced me to slow down, to rely on others, and to find strength in vulnerability.?

As well as watch lots of sports on TV!!

In leadership, resilience is key. Challenges will come, it’s how we respond that defines us.?

By embracing each obstacle as a chance to grow, we can maintain that resilient summer mindset all year long.

2. Lead with Playfulness and Positivity

One of the best parts of summer is the light-heartedness it brings.?

This sense of playfulness doesn’t have to end with the season.?

As leaders, we can foster a positive environment by bringing that same energy into our teams.?

Encourage creativity and innovation, celebrate small wins, and don’t be afraid to inject some fun into your leadership style.?

When we lead with positivity, we not only keep that summer feeling alive, we also inspire our teams to thrive.

3. Prioritise Connection and Support

During my recovery I was reminded of the importance of a strong support network.?

Whether it’s friends, family, or colleagues, having people you can lean on is crucial.?

In leadership, this translates to building and nurturing relationships within your team.?

Prioritise connections—make time for one-on-ones to get to know the person behind the role ….?

To listen actively, and be there for your team when they need support.?

This sense of community keeps the warmth of summer alive, creating a culture of trust, compassion and care.

4. Maintain a Sense of Adventure in Leadership

Summer is synonymous with exploration—new places, new experiences.?

As leaders, it’s vital to maintain that sense of adventure in our work.?

Encourage your team to innovate, take risks, and explore new ideas.?

By fostering an environment where curiosity and exploration are valued, you keep the spirit of summer alive and drive continuous growth and improvement.

5. Reflect and Learn

Finally, summer is a time of reflection.?

My surgery gave me the space to reflect on my leadership journey, to reassess my goals and priorities.?

It gave me time to read. This the latest one that I highly recommend:

"The Courage to be Disliked" by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

As the season changes, take time to reflect on your own leadership.?

What have you learned??

How have you grown??

What are you going to build on?

What are you going to leave behind?

Carry those lessons with you, letting them guide your decisions and actions throughout the year.

Conclusion

Summer teaches us to embrace the moment, to step back slightly, to have more time for self-care and fun, and to cherish connections.?

These are the same qualities that make us effective leaders.?

As we move into a new season, let’s commit to keeping that summer feeling alive in our leadership.?

By doing so, we not only enhance our own leadership journey, we also create an environment where our teams can flourish.

Here’s to carrying the warmth, joy, and resilience of summer with us — no matter the season. ??

Take care

Lizzy x

#resilience #leadership #confidence #adventure

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As Release Your Potential we help directors and aspiring directors to embrace their resilience, confident leadership so that they can communicate with impact, influence, power and purpose to build high performing teams. No body armour required! Let’s speak!