The year is winding down and there are pressures at home and among family to be everywhere and do everything. At work there are deadlines either imposed upon you or self-imposed.
The month of December can be like being in a tea kettle. We start off calm, but as the heat of life and work intensifies we can get to a boiling point and at times scream either literally or figuratively like the tea kettle. What do we do?
Can I suggest thinking into three concepts to help us manage the stress we face daily, but possibly more intensely during December?
Routine
Some of us naturally create routine. We are wired for structure and want to have life planned out by the minute. Others of us need to create that structure. Maybe you have flexibility in your day and can create your own routines or you have to create these routines during other parts of your day.
When your day begins, what happens? Is your phone your alarm clock and you instantly go to check messages of some sort? This immediately puts us in a reacting mindset. Can I suggest you look at your morning routine and evaluate whether it helps reduce stress or increases stress? Look at the first thirty to sixty minutes of the day and determine how to be more proactive in your routine.
Rejuvenate
Each of us recharges our batteries differently. Some of us get recharged by being quiet in a room or sitting in a tree stand in the woods. Others enjoy doing something productive with our hands. Some of us take naps. The possibilities are endless, but we need to know what refuels our energy.
I read of an individual who would work non-stop for three days straight and then take the next three days and do no work. Maybe that works for you if you have that flexibility. Some of us get recharged watching a movie, reading a book, spending time with family. Whatever recharges you, do you have it built into your schedule? This down time will help us be even more effective at work.
Reconnect
Leaders can easily isolate themselves thinking no one else understands their situation. We need to be in community whether that is a professional community such as a mastermind group where we can share openly and learn from one another. Maybe a personal community centered around common values. Both have the common theme of connecting beyond the surface and helping each other reach their full potential.
The five people closest to us most impact the leaders we will become. Who are the people in your life who can help you reach your full potential?
The common theme in all these ideas is creating boundaries. These boundaries help us lead ourselves and others at a higher level to get greater results. Do you want to think more deeply into this? Go here and get a free e-book with questions to process applying these three concepts on managing stress and a free e-book on 5 Ways to Lead Better. In the meantime, lead well!
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