MAINTAINING BALANCE
IN THE FACE OF
STORMS
Keys To Resiliency
Cyclical business storms are bound to come. Achieving mental balance amidst these storms can either make us or break us. Choose to thrive.
During competitive market conditions, internal challengesor when facing economic downturns, businesses owners can experience a sense of instability and anxiety which can impact employees alike. Understanding and addressing these cyclical downturns helps bring clarity and develops fortitude to come out stronger on the other side.
Proactive Self-Care
In times like these, taking proactive steps to maintain balance is crucial for long-term success. One key strategy is practicing self-care. This includes making time for activities that bring joy and relaxation, such as exercise, hobbies, or spending quality time with loved ones. It’s also important to set realistic goals and expectations, allowing yourself some flexibility to move through your action list. Every component of a project can be broken down to urgent, important, and less important. As a leader, the primary focus is generally on the first where your guidance is crucial. Other tasks can be delegated or addressed another day.
Self-Care Strategies:
Develop a mindset of adaptability: Remind yourself that cyclical business storms are something you’ve likely had to experience in the past, and use the experience to prepare you for the next one. Pivoting and adaptability are key to surviving and thriving during these times. Stay open to new ideas, be willing to learn and unlearn, and remain flexible.
Focus on What You Can Control: During business storms, there may be factors beyond your control. Instead of dwelling on what can’t be changed, focus on areas within your control. Direct your energy towards finding solutions or exploring alternative plans with trusted counsel, be it team members or external professional support.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present and aware of our thoughts, emotions, and sensations in the present moment. By cultivating mindfulness, we can develop a greater sense of clarity, focus, and resilience. It allows us to step back from the chaos and recenter ourselves, even in the midst of a conflict. For some it’s meditation or prayer. For others it’s taking a break by getting a breath of fresh air.
Just breathe, and allow your body’s natural coping mechanisms to bring you back to your productive self.
Unload & Delegate: Under extreme circumstances,there’s never a more important time to share the burden with the right team members.Being willing to let go creates more balance, reduces stress, and frees up valuable executive time.
Maintaining mental balance is not just beneficial for your well-being but also for your business. A clear mind allows for better decision-making and problem-solving.
The Power of Exercise: You’ve likely been saying this to yourself for months, but never seem to find the time. You need to. Regular exercise has proven to be an especially powerful tool for executives to maintain mental and productive balance. With few exceptions, when I personally began to employ this practice, I haven’t missed a gym date in over 20 years. Keep in mind, you can also excercise at home. Engaging in physical activity releases endorphins which are natural mood boosters. It helps reduce stress, improves sleep patterns, and enhances our well-being.
Nourishing the Brain & Body: It’s also essential to pay attention not only to physical health but brain health. Certain foods have been shown to support cognitive function. Brain- boosting foods such as fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts, and berries can provide the necessary nutrients to promote mental clarity and resiliency, while gaining more energy.
Productivity Without Burning Out
The Executive Zen Mindset
Making Time for What’s Important
The Work/Life Balance
