FOR THE LOVE OF LEADERSHIP ARCHIVE
Permission to Reset and Refocus
I don't know about you, but I am not built for operating at 100% capacity 100% of the time. My brain knows when it needs to pump the brakes.
Like today - when I tried to switch from writing the agenda for a team retreat I'm facilitating next week to writing this newsletter - my brain used one of its classic signs to let me know it wasn't having it: procrastination.
I opened a Google Doc, stared at the blank template for a few moments, and then:
- Opened a new tab in my browser and bought a pair of my most comfortable pants in navy
- Researched the rewards program on my new credit card
- Texted my cat sitter to see if she's available while I’m away in a couple of weeks
Sometimes our energy isn’t where we want it to be.
If you’re anything like me, the strict, “get back to work and don’t stop until it’s done” approach that used to work just doesn't cut it anymore.
So, this is your permission to take a break and gently shift your attention back to what will leave you feeling best at the end of the day.
Here's what worked for me today:
👀 I noticed that I was off track and doing things that weren't exactly helping.
🚶🏻♀️➡️ I walked down to the cul-de-sac and back for a change of scenery.
🤝 I joined a co-working session - the shared energy and accountability got me right back to writing-mode.
Forcing and “shoulding” never works as well as giving myself some grace, doing something to reset, and then getting back to it.
And, look, here we are - newsletter going out on time and everything ❤️.
In it together,
Laura
PS - Leadership can feel hard and is never picture-perfect. Give yourself whatever grace you need today and don’t forget to ask for support when you need it.
PPS - One of the most supportive people in my world right now is Brooke Hofsess. She is a brilliant coach and her emails always offer meaningful reflections and insights. You can learn more about her and her work here.