Make Self-Care Your Full-Time Job
As leaders, we’re often focused on the needs of others, from team members to family, colleagues, and clients. But here’s a truth worth remembering: before you can effectively lead anyone else, you must first lead yourself. This month’s reflection asks a powerful question: Where are you abandoning yourself?
1. The Leadership Balancing Act
Leadership is about balance. As you commit more and more to your responsibilities, it’s crucial to create space for yourself. You cannot give what you don’t have, and if your well-being is compromised, your leadership will be too. So ask yourself, Where am I not showing up for my own needs?
Taking care of yourself is a foundational leadership principle, and it’s not selfish. It’s about sustaining your capacity to serve.
2. Maslow’s Pyramid and Self-Care
You might be familiar with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs—a simple framework that shows us that our basic needs, like sleep, food, and safety, must be met before we can focus on higher-level aspirations. This is a reminder that self-care isn’t optional; it’s essential.
Think about ways you can make self-care a full-time job. Whether it’s meal prepping, setting time aside for exercise, or scheduling a personal day off, these actions build the foundation for sustainable leadership.
3. Practical Steps for Leadership Self-Care
Start small: What’s one small step you can take today to meet your immediate needs? It could be something as simple as a 10-minute walk or scheduling that appointment you’ve been putting off.
Plan ahead: Make self-care a priority by scheduling it in your calendar. Block out time for meals, rest, or reflection.
Check in with yourself regularly: Ask yourself, What do I need today? And act on that.
Remember, you’re in charge of yourself first. When you prioritize your own well-being, you become a more effective, compassionate, and intentional leader.
How will you take care of yourself this week? Share your thoughts in the comments.
