I'm a HUGE fan (& paying subscriber) of Ann Helen Petersen's Culture Study newsletter. A few months ago, she wrote an essay titled "The Right Kind of Busy/Rethinking the cult of busyness" and it stuck with me over these past few months. I have been sharing it with colleagues and clients on a regular basis. So much so, that I decided to write a blog highlighting the lessons I learned from Petersen and that I have incorporated into my own daily practice and into my executive coaching. I encourage you to read the original essay and to subscribe to the newsletter- it's just so darn good!
From "Always On" to "On My Terms"
The weight of leadership sits heavy on the shoulders of executives. Long hours, constant pressure to perform, and the responsibility for an entire organization can take a toll. In high-stakes roles, there’s often a culture of perpetual motion, where slowing down feels synonymous with falling behind. I once had a College President tell me on a daily basis that I need to be "ABC- Always be Closing". What does that even mean in Higher Education? I had another President tell me that "if you aren't in a state of constant evolution, you are in a slow death spiral". Inspiring right?!
Burnout, a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, is a real threat, leading to decreased productivity, health issues, and even turnover. But what if there was a way to navigate the demanding world of executive leadership without succumbing to burnout? According to Petersen, the answer lies in a seemingly counterintuitive concept: permission. Permission to stop, permission to play, and permission to go internal. Let's dig into these together:
Permission to Stop
Executives often wear the "always on" badge as a badge of honor. There's a constant pressure to be available, to solve problems, and to make decisions. However, this relentless pace is unsustainable. The first step to avoiding burnout is granting yourself permission to stop.
Strategic pauses– can be profoundly revitalizing. This could mean setting boundaries on work hours, taking short breaks during the day to breathe and stretch, or ensuring that weekends rejuvenate rather than drain.
Prioritize sleep – a well-rested mind is a more effective one. By allowing yourself to truly disconnect and recharge, you'll return to work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle challenges.
Permission to Play (Even at Work)
Executives often associate "play" with activities outside of work. However, incorporating elements of fun and enjoyment into your work life can be a powerful tool against burnout. Rediscovering play, especially in the form of work that feels genuinely fun and engaging, can significantly alter your emotional and mental wellbeing. This doesn't mean turning board meetings into game shows.
Instead, consider:
Delegation: Empower your team by delegating tasks that you no longer find stimulating.
Learning New Skills: Take on a new project that excites you and allows you to develop new expertise.
Brainstorming Sessions: Approach brainstorming sessions with a playful attitude. Encourage creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.
Or consider dedicating time to innovative side projects, mentoring younger employees, or involving oneself in different aspects of the business that stir curiosity and excitement.
By injecting these elements of "play" into your work life, you'll not only find tasks more enjoyable but also foster a more creative and engaged work environment.
Permission to Go Internal
The constant demands of the executive role can lead to a disconnect from your core values, goals, and sense of self. The permission to go internal is about reconnecting with your internal compass—your core goals, values, and sense of self. Consider setting aside time for activities that strengthen your connection with your inner self, such as journaling, meditative practices, or strategic planning away from the office. Granting yourself permission to go internal means taking the necessary time for introspection. This could involve:
Meditation: Meditation helps quiet the mind and reconnect with your inner voice.
Journaling: Taking time to reflect on your thoughts, feelings, and motivations can help you identify areas of stress or misalignment.
Nature Retreats: Immersing yourself in nature can be a powerful way to clear your head and gain perspective.
Invest into Mindfullness Strategies: Check out my blog to incorporate mindful strategies into your work day.
By prioritizing your inner well-being, you'll be better equipped to navigate the external pressures of your role.
Implementing Mindful Work Practices
The executive who grants themselves permission to stop, play, and go internal isn't being lazy or unproductive. They're being a whole & human leader. They understand that their well-being is directly tied to their effectiveness. They lead by example, demonstrating the importance of self-care and work-life balance for their teams.
Remember, you are not a machine. By incorporating these permissions into your daily life, you'll be better equipped to conquer the challenges of executive leadership, avoid burnout, and lead your organization to success.
Implementing these permissions requires intentional changes in both mindset and behavior. Start by evaluating your current work habits and identifying areas where you can afford to pull back or push in a new direction. Communicate your boundaries and needs clearly to your team and colleagues to ensure that they respect your new approach.
Leaders should encourage a culture where such practices are not only accepted but promoted as part of the organizational culture. This can help normalize rest, play, and introspection as vital elements of a successful executive life, which in turn enhances overall productivity and workplace morale.
Final Thoughts...
For executives, avoiding burnout isn’t just about personal health; it’s about setting a sustainable example of leadership. By granting yourself permission to stop, play, and go internal, you can maintain a fulfilling career and a wholesome life. Remember, the goal is not to work until you drop, but to work smart, allowing you to enjoy both your achievements and the journey along the way.
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