One of the greatest joys I have in life is the daily opportunity to speak with my sister Nicole. We talk about everything and anything. We give each other advice and counsel. We share secrets, like the surprises we plan for family members. We laugh. God, we laugh. We talk about our childhood and share our dreams for the future. We even talk about leadership.
She recently became a branch manager at one of the largest primary care practices in the area. That’s not her official title (I’m sure I’ll get a text when she reads this), but you get the point: She runs the place! While this isn’t her first foray into leadership, this is her first time being in charge of everything and everyone. I’m so proud of her. I know I am biased, but I’m in awe of the intentionality and humanity with which she wants to lead every single day. Her team is lucky to have her, but I’m luckier than them. She’s my built-in best friend.
This past Saturday, we spent about an hour on the phone as I walked my daily circuit around town. We talked about all the things I mentioned before, as well as how important it is to take care of ourselves as leaders.
While I won’t share all the ins and outs of our conversation, I’d invite you to consider how well you’re taking care of yourself as the year winds to a close. Last week, I challenged you to “Finish Strong!” and this week, I’d remind you that finishing strong means making time for yourself.
Think about it: What’s one thing that you can do for yourself over the next couple of weeks that will allow you to be a better version of yourself for the people around you? If you gawk at that sentence and think, “I don’t have that kind of time!” I’d humbly ask you to consider the possible alternatives. Remember, this can be anything, as long as it serves you and fills your cup.
Before I go, here are some reminders about the importance of self-care:
The most powerful relationship you will ever have is the relationship with yourself. (Diane Von Furstenb)
Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes – including you. (Anne Lamott)
Self-care means giving yourself permission to pause. (Cecilia Tran}
When we give ourselves compassion, we are opening our hearts in a way that can transform our lives. (Kristin Neff)
Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit it allows you to serve others from the overflow. You cannot serve from an empty vessel. (Eleanor Brownn)
When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life. (Jean Bolen)
Love yourself first, and everything else falls in line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world. (Lucille Ball)
If your compassion does not include yourself, it is incomplete. (Jack Kornfield)
Acknowledge, accept, and honor that you deserve your own deepest compassion and love. (Nanette Mathews)
You are a VIP, a very important person. So take care with self-care. If not you, who? If not now, when? (Toni Hawkins)
It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary. (Mandy Hale)
Self-care is the secret ingredient to soldier care in a recipe that yields many servings of effective leadership. (Donavan Butler)
Take the time today to love yourself. You deserve it. (Avina Celeste)
It’s hard, but it’s simple: You can’t pursue greatness if you’re not taking care of yourself.
#ChooseToBeGreat!
Angelo
CHOOSE TO BE GREAT 