Self-care for Better Leadership. Even in the Face of Self-Doubt

I had a little freak-out last week.

A lot of smart and successful people I know are in the business of helping other people fair better in life by focusing on their wellbeing.   I play in that space because I know that most of our managers and leaders do not take care of themselves and have maybe never even been exposed to the idea.   

Everything at Boss at the Helm is focused on this sweet spot of self-management and leading others.

But, back to the freak-out. One of these very talented people in my network posted on a platform about remembering to breathe & take care of yourself to ensure you don't deplete your own energy reserves.

The day before, I had just posted on a different platform reminding folks to schedule time on their calendar to take a moment for themselves.

So, I appreciated their post and mentioned how I once had a Post It note with a reminder of quick things I could do to restore my own energy.

Someone else reading my comment then asked me for a list of those quick things. I had that list readily at hand since I was planning to share that week anyway. I posted it and mentioned that while it's helpful to look at what works for others, you really need to notice what lights you up & refreshes you. Make your list from that.

My colleague said "I'll send you a list."

Then I freaked out. Was I stepping on someone's toes by sharing my own Post-it list?

I really spiraled a minute on this.  

It's funny how even with the best intentions, we doubt ourselves.

I asked myself:

• Did I deliberately set out to do harm?
• Did I intentionally try to steal the shine from anyone?
• Did I respond to a direct inquiry with helpful information?

Once I had those answers I decided, there is space for us all and there are so many of who need help. 

Here's hoping that individual and many more paused to rejuvenate their spirit and maybe even made a reminder list of things to try, cobbled from many sources including themself. Here's hoping they pass it on.

Watch this video for on self-care for better leadership.