Why Did I Not Hit the Wall? The Secret of Balancing Success and Well-being

NB: The following words by no means undermine the experiences of those who have faced burnout; it’s important to acknowledge that burnout is often a result of systemic issues rather than personal failings.

The Untold Secret Every Leader Needs to Know...

In the relentless pursuit of success, leaders often overlook a vital truth: your well-being directly impacts your leadership effectiveness. It’s not just about filling up your schedule but about being fully present, mindful, and balanced. Achieving harmony between personal well-being and professional success isn't a luxury; it’s a necessity. A leader who is physically and mentally well brings more to the table, can handle stress with resilience, and sets an inspiring example for their team.

A Personal Journey: Navigating Adversity and Finding Balance

While I consider myself fortunate not to have faced major trauma, adversity has been a constant companion throughout my life (I have had to handle a life-changing car accident, autoimmune disease, toxic management, and more I am yet not ready to disclose). I have managed to avoid burnout by consistently prioritising my well-being. Unlike many 'experts' who suggest their expertise comes from personal recovery from burnout, I focus on proactive self-care to prevent burnout from happening in the first place. Just as your oncologist doesn't need to have survived cancer to treat you, I don't need to have experienced burnout to help you thrive.

An Encounter That Hit Home

"I'm one of those who hit the wall," these are the painful words I heard a dear childhood friend say when I met her after more than 15 years of separation and when I cheerfully asked her, "So how are you, and how are things?" The same friend I admired, who inspired me, who I looked up to so much. Wow, that hurts. She was hardworking, in every area of her life, competent, enthusiastic, and brilliant. Fortunately, she's fine again today, yet, this should not happen.

The Pressure We Face: Society, Family, and Self

The pressures that lead to burnout are multifaceted, often stemming from societal expectations, family responsibilities, and personal ambitions. Society glorifies constant hustle and productivity, family dynamics can add to the pressure of meeting expectations, and our own inner drive can push us beyond healthy limits. Recognising these pressures and addressing them is crucial in preventing burnout.

Why Some Leaders Hit the Wall and Others Don't

The difference often lies in self-awareness and proactive self-care. It’s about setting boundaries, knowing your limits, respecting your need for rest, and understanding your preferred behavioural styles. These elements create a framework for sustainable success:

1. Setting Boundaries: Clearly define your work and personal time. Respect these boundaries to ensure you have time to recharge.
2. Knowing Your Limits: Recognise when you’re stretching yourself too thin. It’s okay to say no or delegate tasks when necessary.
3. Respecting Your Need for Rest: Prioritise sleep and downtime. Your body and mind need recovery to function optimally.
4. Understanding Your Behavioural Styles: Know your strengths and weaknesses. Use tools like the DISC assessment and VIA Strength Finders to understand how you work best and what environments are most conducive to your productivity and well-being.

Cultivating a Culture of Wellness: A Leader’s Responsibility

Your well-being is not just about you—it's about the environment you create for your team at work and at home. Just like your family, the workplace should be a sanctuary of health and productivity. Promoting honest feedback using SBIC (Situation, Behaviour, Impact, and Conversation) and developing psychological capital with HEROic Leadership can significantly impact your team’s health and morale. When you demonstrate a commitment to wellness, your team is likely to follow, leading to increased productivity, reduced absenteeism, and higher job satisfaction.

From Home to Office: Practical Steps to Enhance Well-being

1. Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine to stay grounded and focused.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise is crucial. Whether it’s a morning jog, yoga, or a gym session, physical activity boosts your energy levels and mental clarity. Encourage your team to stay active by organising group activities or offering gym memberships.
3. Healthy Eating: Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining energy levels and cognitive function. Opt for balanced meals and stay hydrated. Consider providing healthy snacks in the office to promote better eating habits among your team.
4. Work-Life Balance: Set boundaries to ensure you have time to recharge. Encourage your team to do the same. A well-rested team is more creative and productive.
5. Mental Health Support and Education: Create an open environment where discussing mental health is encouraged. Provide resources such as counselling services or stress management workshops. Use resources like the Positive Performances Mobile APP to educate yourself and your team on mental health and psychosocial competencies, promoting a supportive workplace culture.

Leading by Example: The Ripple Effect of Well-being

When you prioritise your well-being, you lead by example. Your team will see the benefits of a balanced lifestyle and be more likely to adopt similar habits. This ripple effect can transform your workplace into a thriving, healthy, and productive environment. Remember, a healthy leader inspires a healthy team, and a healthy team achieves extraordinary results.

Conclusion: The Power of Well-being in Leadership

Well-being is not a destination but a journey. As a leader, taking care of yourself is the first step toward creating a thriving, successful team. By integrating wellness into your leadership style, you set the stage for a more resilient, motivated, and high-performing team. Embrace well-being as a core leadership strategy and watch your team and your success soar (fly high).

Let's Connect!

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Share your thoughts in the comments, how do you balance well-being and leadership? Let’s inspire each other to lead better by living better.