How Full Is Your River?
Have you ever been on a river in a small boat? Imagine for a minute that you are in a boat on a river. The boat represents you. The river represents your energy or mental well-being. Stay with me; this will make sense in a minute. When the river is full, your boat moves effortlessly down the river; the rocks and other obstacles under the water are fully submerged, and you glide over them. What happens when your energy gets depleted? The river is now half full, and while still submerged, the rocks and other obstacles are much closer to the surface, meaning you keep bumping into them.
Here is the thing. As a leader, you have many demands on you. However, if your cup is not full, or in this case, the river, you will find yourself emotionally compromised. It means that big emotional events hardly touch you, but when someone is rude, a traffic light turns red, or someone cuts you off on the motorway, you may find yourself massively overreacting. What should be a 3 out of 10 becomes an 8 or 9 because you are depleted and may have been so for some time. If this is you, then you are not alone. What is true is that you will not be at your best. Your team will not get your best contribution.
There are remedies, so there is hope. You must understand before ploughing on with possible remedies that just doing what energised you before and to the same degree will not help you. It will only keep the river from dropping further. In order to raise the level you must do more things that energise you than drain you.
3 Steps to begin your journey:
Step 1: Prioritise Self-Care
The first step to replenishing your energy is to prioritise self-care. This might sound cliché, but it’s foundational. Make sure you are getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly. These basic aspects of self-care can dramatically impact your energy levels. Create a routine that includes time for activities that relax and rejuvenate you, such as reading, meditating, or spending time in nature. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it is necessary for you to be the best leader you can be.
Step 2: Set Boundaries
As a leader, you are often pulled in multiple directions. It is crucial to set boundaries to protect your time and energy. Learn to say no to requests that do not align with your priorities or that you simply do not have the capacity to handle. Delegate tasks when possible and trust your team to take on responsibilities. If your team members can do 80% as well as you then delegate. Setting boundaries also means creating time for yourself during the workday, whether it’s a lunch break away from your desk or a short walk to clear your mind. These boundaries will help you maintain a fuller river.
Step 3: Cultivate a Support System
No one can do it all alone, and as a leader, it is essential to cultivate a support system both at work and in your personal life. Seek out trusted mentors, colleagues, and friends who can offer advice, share experiences, and provide a listening ear. At work, foster a culture of teamwork where responsibilities are shared, and everyone feels supported. In your personal life, lean on family and friends who can help you unwind and provide a different perspective on challenges. A strong support system will help you stay resilient.
Next Steps
Your energy and mental well-being are the foundations of your ability to lead effectively. By prioritising self-care, setting boundaries, and cultivating a support system, you can ensure that your energy levels remain full and your boat navigates the river of your leadership smoothly. What will you do today to replenish your energy and be the best leader for your team? Remember, a well-nourished leader can better guide and inspire others. So, how full is your river? It’s time to stop deferring and take action.
Photo by Daniel Arroyo on Unsplash
