The lesson I didn’t want to have to learn

It started just like physical pain always does - manageable until it wasn’t. I had never felt such extreme dental pain before. I pushed through 3 speaking engagements, coaching calls and deadlines. I didn’t want to miss any of it despite the growing pain.

Quickly, the pain escalated to the point where I literally had to make choices every day about my rest vs. answering another email or staying up late to practice a presentation one more time.?

I really had to trust my team to carry out projects and be comfortable that my level of “perfection” that I expect from myself was going to have to be less important than my health.?

I also know that when I have reached my maximum capacity of stress, my body responds when I don’t do it myself.?

And that’s what happened. It was time for me to take time off to take care of myself.

Fortunately, I am now on the other side of everything and feeling much better, but along the way I learned another important leadership lesson I’m taking into next year: ?

There is only one “me” and that sometimes the most urgent thing to do is to take care of myself.

I truly believe and ensure that my team takes their time off, but sometimes I am not so good at ensuring that I get my time, too. But as a leader, I must take time to care for myself because if I do not, then I won’t be able to lead my team well.?

Many leaders share this similar challenge. The doubt is overwhelming -

?? What will happen when I’m gone??

?? Who will keep things from falling apart?

As leaders, it’s easy to get caught in the mindset that you need to have your hand in everything or it will fail. I used to be stuck in this mindset, too. But, it is possible to step away to prioritize your own health and your team to still operate successfully!?

During this past month, I was incredibly grateful for my amazing team, and that over the years, I have put processes in place to make any time off I take seamless for them and my clients.

Here’s how I did it:

1. Run through possible scenarios that could occur for which the team would usually turn to me for guidance and possible solutions they can offer instead.
2. Clearly define what an “emergency” is for our business and when I need to be notified.?
3. Scheduled 2, short 30 minute check-ins during my absence.

The results? Not one single thing “fell apart.”

My team stepped up and exceeded my expectations.

They felt proud of their accomplishments while I was out and experienced growth in their roles for having the sole responsibility during my absence.

And by prioritizing my health, I am now feeling better physically and mentally, which is exactly what my team and business needs to thrive.

It takes commitment, training and clarity in communication, expectations and your ability to trust your team, but you can do it.

As we end 2024 and look to the beginning of 2025, I hope you take time to care for yourself, too. ??

Lead??, Listen??? to & Love ? Your People,?

Anne