As the summer sun begins to set, signaling the onset of fall, a sense of change is palpable. The kids are back in school, the days are shorter, and for many, it’s time to transition from the relaxed pace of summer back to the structured demands of work. Yikes!! But this transition isn’t just about physically returning to the office; it’s about mentally and emotionally re-engaging with your leadership responsibilities. Yes….they really do exist.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that poor mental health costs the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity.
In a world filled with office politics, endless meetings, and the constant needs of others, it’s easy to find yourself ‘checked out.’ Let’s be honest. How any times have you been on your Amazon account and added items to your wish list…. In truth, you might not feel entirely burnt out, but there’s a certain disengagement—a sense that you’re going through the motions without truly being present. And if you’re feeling this way, chances are others in your organization or department are feeling it too. So how do you get back on track? How do you reignite your passion for leadership and set yourself up for a successful fall and beyond? Here are three critical steps to consider:
Step 1: Revisit and Revise Your Leadership Plan
Leadership is not a static endeavor. It requires constant reflection, adaptation, and growth. A leadership plan serves as a roadmap for what you want to achieve during your tenure, but it should never be set in stone. As the landscape of your organization evolves, so too should your leadership plan.
The Fall is an ideal time to revisit this plan. Ask yourself: Are your goals still aligned with the needs of the organization? Have there been any changes in the strategic vision or execution that require adjustments? Are there new challenges or opportunities that weren’t present when you first created the plan? A lot of times we don’t want to ask these questions because it means having to really focus on ourselves and it’s easier and often preferred to focus on others.
A well-crafted leadership plan is one that evolves with time. It should consider the changing needs of your organization and your team. This doesn’t mean abandoning your initial goals, but rather adjusting your approach to ensure that you’re still on track to achieve them. For instance, if the organization is moving in a new strategic direction, your leadership plan should reflect this shift, ensuring that your actions are aligned with the broader organizational goals.
Research Insight: According to a study by the Harvard Business Review, leaders who regularly revisit and adjust their leadership plans are 50% more likely to achieve their goals than those who do not. This proactive approach ensures that leaders remain relevant and effective in their roles, adapting to changes within the organization and the external environment.
Step 2: Conduct a Sanity Check: Mental Health and Wellness
Leadership isn’t just about moving the needle from point A to B. It’s about leading with a clear mind and a healthy spirit. Holding a leadership position can be incredibly stressful, and the mental and emotional toll it takes should not be underestimated. Mental health and wellness are more important than ever.
Before you can effectively lead others, you need to ensure that your own mental and emotional well-being is in balance. In other words, get your house in order. This means taking the time to check in with yourself, recognizing the signs of stress, anxiety, or burnout, and taking proactive steps to address them. Whether it’s through mindfulness practices, regular breaks, or seeking support from a coach or therapist, maintaining your mental health is critical to your effectiveness as a leader.
Research Insight: The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that poor mental health costs the global economy $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. Leaders who prioritize mental health not only improve their own well-being but also set a positive example for their teams, leading to a more engaged and productive workforce.
Additionally, a report from Deloitte found that organizations that prioritize mental health see a return on investment (ROI) of $4 for every $1 spent on mental health initiatives. This underscores the importance of mental health not just for individual leaders, but for the organization as a whole.
An absent or physically depleted leader is not an effective leader.
Step 3: Prioritize Your Physical Health
Leadership demands energy, focus, and stamina—all of which are directly impacted by your physical health. Skipping meals, sacrificing sleep, and neglecting exercise might seem like small compromises in the short term, but over time, they can have a significant impact on your ability to lead effectively.
An absent or physically depleted leader is not an effective leader. In today’s workplace, where the Gen Z segment craves professional relationships and development, your physical presence and engagement are more important than ever. You cannot foster these relationships or meet the developmental needs of your team if you’re not physically and mentally up to the challenge.
Maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and ensuring adequate sleep are not just about personal well-being—they’re essential components of effective leadership. When you take care of your body, you’re better equipped to handle the stresses of leadership, make clear decisions, and lead your team with energy and enthusiasm.
Research Insight: A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that leaders who engage in regular physical activity are perceived as more effective by their teams. Additionally, the American Heart Association recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, citing benefits such as improved mood, better focus, and enhanced cognitive function—all critical for effective leadership.
Let American Management and Leadership by Design Help You Get Back on Track
Getting back on the leadership track requires more than just a renewed focus—it demands a holistic approach that addresses your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. At American Management and Leadership by Design (AMLD), we specialize in helping leaders like you realign with your goals, prioritize your well-being, and lead with renewed energy and purpose.
Effective leaders are those who lead by example. Let us help you step out of the fog, cultivate laser focus, and close out 2024 as your best year yet!
📞 Call us today at 888-824-4631, scan the QR code below, or use the link to learn more and schedule a consultation: Meet Dr. Andrea.
By following these steps and committing to continuous improvement, you can get back on track and lead your team to new heights this fall. Remember, leadership is not just about guiding others—it’s about leading yourself with the same level of care, intention, and commitment. Let this fall be a time of renewal, growth, and success for you and your organization.
American Management and Leadership by Design – We Fix Businesses and Strengthen Leadership. 💼💪🏽
