Stop For a Minute, Or Else…

So much to do, so little time.  You’re probably familiar with the phrase.  And as a leader — no matter the arena in which you lead — this phrase could well be your mantra.  I know.  I share the sentiment.  One of the things I’ve learned over the years, however, is that if you don’t insert some “stop moments” into the busy-ness that is your life, you will pay, in some way or another.  And usually, the cost to going non-stop isn’t worth the price, at least not when going non-stop is your modus operandi.

There’s a sense that as a leader you must model efficiency and productivity.   I would agree with this, however, efficiency and productivity goes down the drain when you don’t take the time to refuel and regroup.  In too many cases, you’re very likely flying through your day, not taking time to eat, trying to complete multiple projects at once and meet a myriad of deadlines.  While taking a 3-week vacation in the middle of this may in fact be unreasonable, there is still a way — and a need — to stop and regroup in such a way as to actually be the model you’re striving to be.  Here are some suggestions:

• remember, breaks don’t have to be long — 5 minutes can be more than adequate
• when you do take a break, be absolute about it — shut your computer off, leave the phone alone, close your door
• take a scenery break — get out of the office and sit on a sofa somewhere, with a warm beverage — and savour it
• turn your brain off — or at least, off of work; focus on something that gives your brain a change of pace
• your break isn’t about checking anything off your to-do list, so be sure that your focus for this time is rejuvenation
• take a quick walk, even if it’s just around the parking lot — the fresh air will do you good
• eat — something healthy, something to give you energy, and focus on what you’re eating while you do — savour it

One of the things I know for sure is that leaders have an obligation to model not only productivity and efficiency, but good self-care habits.  Self-care isn’t selfish in any way; self-care actually serves your ultimate objective, whatever it might be, and increases productivity in the long run.  Bottom-line:  learn to take the time.  Your body, your mind, your team will all thank you.  And you’ll achieve what you’re wanting with enough energy left to enjoy the feeling of success.