I Love Cooking ...

You might just be wondering

"What is the relationship between my love for cooking and a leadership-themed newsletter"?

Keep that thought for a mo'

As many of us would probably attest to in this daily and never-ending hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of respite can feel like a rare luxury. Some of us have made a career out of having no time for ourselves. We have been doing it for so long that we are "pretty good at it".

As a leader navigating the complexities of today's world, it's easy to become consumed by the demands of the job, leaving little time for oneself.

Yet, amidst the chaos, I've discovered a set of sanctuaries that not only allows me to unwind but also nurtures my creativity and sense of self: writing is a big one and cooking is another.

You see I love cooking ... It isn't just a chore or a necessity, in fact I have always enjoyed cooking.

From the rhythmic chopping of vegetables to the aromatic symphony that fills the kitchen, each moment spent preparing a meal is an opportunity to connect with myself and the world around me.

One of the most profound aspects of cooking for me is the sense of downtime it provides. In a world that constantly demands our attention, cooking allows me to slow down, to savor each moment, and to be present in the act of creation. There's something incredibly meditative about the process – the simple act of stirring a pot or kneading dough can be remarkably therapeutic, offering a much-needed reprieve from the chaos of the day.

I found especially true that in the years immediately after losing my Dad, cooking time gave me so much room to reflect on and about him. That stays with me till today.

Moreover, cooking provides me with valuable "me time" – a chance to indulge in self-care and nourish my body and soul. In the kitchen, I am free to experiment, to play with flavors and textures, and to create something that is uniquely my own. Whether I'm following a cherished family recipe or improvising with whatever ingredients I have on hand, cooking allows me to express myself in a way that few other activities can.

But perhaps most importantly, cooking fuels my creativity. From dreaming up new flavor combinations to presenting a dish in an artful manner, there's an inherent sense of innovation and exploration that comes with being in the kitchen. Cooking challenges me to think outside the box, to embrace failure as a necessary step on the path to success, and to constantly push the boundaries of what I thought was possible.

As a leader, I've come to realize the importance of finding balance in my life – of nurturing my passions and interests outside of work in order to maintain a sense of perspective and fulfillment. For me, cooking is just one of many extracurricular activities that bring me joy and fulfillment, but it's one that has had a profound impact on my personal and professional life alike.

Leadership is not just about making tough decisions or driving results; it's about fostering a sense of well-being and inspiration among those you lead. By embracing activities like cooking – activities that allow us to unwind, to connect with ourselves, and to unleash our creativity – we become better, more balanced leaders. We lead not just with our minds, but with our hearts and souls as well.

I invite you to reflect on your own journey as a leader. Do you have a self-care routine that nourishes your mind, body, and soul? And perhaps more importantly, how often do you stick to it amidst the demands of leadership?

Let's share and learn from each other ...you never know you may just introduce others to a new world of self-care activities.