Step away timely!

I noticed a post here on LinkedIn a couple of days ago from one of my network. It was clear a struggle happened. I decided to pick up the phone this morning and have a chat. Anyone that knows me well, will know I have given the same advice to my teams, peers, and network over the years.

In the often unforgiving corporate world, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of deadlines, meetings, and constant pressure to perform. While the work we do is important, it's crucial to remember that we're not saving lives. Unlike brain or heart surgeons, whose every decision can mean the difference between life and death, our professional endeavours, though significant, are rarely matters of such immediate and critical consequence.

Recognizing this distinction can help put our daily stresses into perspective, allowing us to prioritize our well-being over the relentless demands of the job. Identifying stress triggers and managing them proactively—whether through regular breaks, setting boundaries (master The Art of Saying No (forbes.com) ), or seeking support—can help maintain your health and ensure we continue to perform effectively in our roles.

I hate to admit it, but this took me a long time to realize in my earlier career, which resulted in a very close shave, more on that here: Mental Health - A Reality Check | LinkedIn (disclaimer: graphic suicidal scene, don't read if this may trigger you).

As we navigate our careers, it's vital to maintain a sense of self-worth that isn't solely tied to our professional achievements. Remembering that our value extends beyond our job titles and accomplishments can provide a healthier, more balanced perspective.

Take the steps to safeguard yourself. Look at the context of life. Sometimes things just needs to wait for you, especially when it comes to work.