Who Are You at Your Best? Do You Really Know?
We all know what it feels like to not be at our best. Last year, I got shingles, and let me tell you—it was a shocker! It seemed to come out of nowhere, like so many challenges do, and it completely sidelined me. Reflecting on it now, I wonder: Was I missing the warning signs? Many leaders I work with are under constant stress, just trying to keep their heads above water. They rarely pause long enough to notice the signals of decline. Maybe that was me last year?
Being a great leader is personal. It requires you to focus on being at your best as a human. Who you are as a leader is deeply tied to who you are at your core. And at the heart of being your best self is a commitment to your wellbeing.
But let’s clarify something important: wellbeing isn’t just the absence of illness or stress. It’s not something to consider only when things go wrong. Wellbeing is proactive. It’s about making daily, intentional choices to fuel your mind, body, and spirit so that you can show up fully for yourself and others.
Richard Branson captured this beautifully when he said, “Take care of yourself. If your health and your mind is well, you’re going to be able to take care of your business and others.” As leaders, we often feel responsible for everything and everyone. But how can you pour from an empty cup?
Think back to the safety briefing on an airplane: they always tell you to fit your own oxygen mask before helping others. Why? Because if you’re not breathing, you can’t help anyone else. Leadership operates on the same principle. Taking care of your own wellbeing isn’t selfish—it’s essential.
When you prioritise your wellbeing, the benefits ripple outward.
You become more present, energised, and resilient. You make clearer decisions, engage in more productive conversations, and lead with greater empathy. This creates a positive ripple effect, extending to your team and fostering a culture of trust, engagement, and innovation.
It’s easy to picture a leader running on empty - burnt out, exhausted, and neglecting their own needs. The message they send to their team? That overwork is normal and wellbeing is optional. Now imagine a leader who openly models self-care and encourages their team to do the same. This leader sets a powerful example and builds a culture where people feel supported to thrive—not just survive.
So, what does prioritising your wellbeing look like? It doesn’t always require massive changes. Start with small, consistent actions:
- Move your body: A walk, a yoga session, or even stretching between meetings boosts energy and clarity.
- Protect your time: Set boundaries and make space for activities that recharge you.
- Fuel your brain: Read, learn, or spend time in nature to stay inspired.
- Check in with yourself: Reflect on how you feel and what you need—mindfulness or journaling can work wonders.
- Connect with others: A quick, meaningful check-in with someone you trust can be incredibly grounding.
Leadership is demanding, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your health. By taking care of yourself first, you create the capacity to lead others with compassion and strength.
When you’re at your best, everyone around you benefits. And isn’t that what leadership is all about—creating a positive impact that extends far beyond yourself?
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