The Impact of Health on Leadership

Why Your Physical and Mental Well-being Matters

1. Here’s the Problem

As business leaders, we’re like the Energizer Bunny—always on, always pushing, always ready to tackle the next big challenge. Except when we aren’t. Somewhere between the 7 a.m. meeting and the 10 p.m. email binge, we crash.

And it’s not just about needing another coffee. It’s the deep crash—low energy, brain fog, the "What was I supposed to do again?" moments. I had those moments when I was leading a clinical team for a large medical device company.

Early morning meetings meant middle-of-the-night wake ups to travel. I once was in three major cities in less than 24 hours flying into 3 different time zones! Not a recipe for health. It was a huge wakeup call for me. If I was going to push the limits of my leadership, I had to up my health and fitness levels.

?Let’s face it: we can run on fumes for only so long before things start falling apart. When we let our health slide—whether it’s skipping meals, ignoring exercise, or treating sleep like an optional add-on—we’re setting ourselves up for more than just a sluggish day. Our physical health and mental clarity are like the two sides of a coin. You mess with one, the other suffers.

Here’s the kicker: that extra stress from being out of shape? It affects your brain’s ability to function, period. Whether it’s decision-making, handling unexpected problems, or dealing with a never-ending to-do list, your brain needs fuel and rest.

?When you run on sugar and caffeine instead of proper meals and sleep, your ability to lead goes out the window. The body can only handle so many donuts before it stages a rebellion.

?And don’t get me started on what happens when we skip exercise. Our bodies like movement. A sedentary leader is a tired, cranky leader. Without the right balance of movement, diet, and sleep, you’re probably wondering why you can't think straight by 3 p.m. Spoiler alert: your brain has clocked out for the day.

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2. Why Is This Important to Me as a Business Leader?

I get it, you're thinking, "Sure, health is important, but I’m running a company here!" Exactly. That’s why this matters so much more. As a leader, you’re expected to juggle a dozen priorities and make quick, effective decisions all while keeping your cool. If you’re operating at 50% energy, how are you supposed to lead at 100%?

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Let’s break it down: leadership is a brain game. Your brain is the HQ of all your critical decisions, your brilliant insights, and, let’s be honest, your best pep talks to your team. But if you're running on no sleep, bad food, and no exercise, your brain is operating with all the energy of a phone on 1% battery.

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You know how you freak out when your phone’s about to die?

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That’s your brain on a bad health day—scrambling to make it to the next plug (or the next coffee).

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And the stress? Oh, it’s real.

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When you’re not taking care of yourself, stress doesn’t just knock on your door; it moves in, sets up shop, and makes itself comfortable.

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Chronic stress messes with your ability to think critically, manage emotions, and lead with confidence.

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Not only that, but have you noticed how stress also brings out your Inner Critic—the one that says, “If I don’t do this myself, it’ll be a disaster.” That voice, the Perfectionist Maestro, is really good at convincing you that you have to do it all yourself.

Sound familiar?

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Here’s a newsflash: trying to do everything yourself because “no one else can do it right” is a one-way ticket to Burnout Town.

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If you’re constantly stressed and tired, your brain is going to start making decisions like it’s been up all night binge-watching a Netflix series. Spoiler: Not good.

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3. Here’s How to Fix It (with your attitude)

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Alright, enough of the doom and gloom. Here’s the good news: You can get your brain and body back on track, and no, it doesn’t require living on kale smoothies or spending hours at the gym. This is where Attitude comes in—your personal roadmap to transforming your health and leadership.

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First things first, focus on taming that inner voice. Remember the Perfectionist Maestro? Yeah, they need to take a back seat. It's best to work together with a coach to help you shift your mindset, so you can let go of that urge to control everything.

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?Guess what happens when you do?

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You get mental space to focus on the big picture, reduce stress, and actually enjoy running your business again.

Next up, create a personalized plan for your nutrition and fitness that fits your crazy schedule.

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No, this isn’t some 12-step, impossible-to-follow, cleanse-from-hell diet. It’s about giving your body and brain the fuel they need to perform at their best. Remember, your body is a 3-D printer using food as it's ink. Simple changes—like adding more protein and resistance training—can boost your energy, sharpen your focus, and, dare I say, give you that competitive edge you’ve been missing. You're actually developing your Inner Coach.

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Oh, and it will help you sleep better too, so you can finally say goodbye to those 3 p.m. crashes.

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Finally, the secret sauce: accountability.

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Research shows that if you're not alone on this journey your chances of success increase dramatically. Don’t just work your plan and hope you'll succeed. Find an accountability partner to hold your feet to the fire. You need the support and guidance to stick to the plan, make real progress, share your wins, and stay on track.

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So, if you’re tired of feeling like you’re running on empty, it’s time to take back control—of your health and your leadership. A better version of you is waiting on the other side of better health. You can get started today. It's time to make that first step.? Follow me for more tips or book a consultation now and experience the B3 Way for yourself! #theB3Way #Leadership

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Keep the Momentum Going!

If you’re ready to take control of your health, mindset, and leadership, here are your next steps:

1. Subscribe on LinkedIn: Join the community of leaders who are leveling up their health and life. Follow me here for daily insights and tips.
2. Join Optimized Health for Leaders: Our exclusive Facebook group is where the conversation deepens. Get access to a supportive network of like-minded leaders who are committed to intentional health. Click here to join the group!
3. Watch the Latest Podcast: Tune in to the latest episode where I discuss practical strategies for living with more energy, confidence, and focus. Watch it here.
4. Work with Me: If you’re ready for a personalized plan that helps you overcome your inner critic and achieve your health goals, schedule a consultation today. Let’s talk. Follow me at proattitudes.com/follow

Don’t wait. The next step in your journey to optimized health and leadership is just one click away!