I’m writing to you today from Sydney where we have just facilitated a face to face industry leadership program. It’s the first for the program and we included daily wellbeing sessions for 30 mins each day. So, I thought what a great topic to write about. Winter is here and so is the season of wellbeing for leaders. It’s a great time to remember the seasons and their importance to our own wellbeing. As leaders, it’s impossible to run at 100% high energy all the time. I think Winter is a time to slow down – it’s all about slower mornings and earlier nights. It’s the season of Rest and Reset.
I know what you’re thinking right now! I don’t have time. What’s Winter got to do with Leadership? I reckon there’s a link between leadership and the seasons for sure. If nothing else a season gives us a focus for leadership and I support Winter as the season for Rest, Reflect, Review and Reset. Many see Summer and the new year as the time for this. I’ll argue it’s better in Winter and leave your Summer months for holidays, family and fun!
“The Winter months are about resting and not pushing through. They are about recognising that you might be running close to empty or experiencing overwhelm. They are about resting and resetting your day, your health and your energy. Winter is about returning to and making more time for the things that warm and nurture you.”
Jo Eady
Today, I want to share some practical ways to support your leadership wellbeing through Winter. These are practical things for you to lean in to for the cooler and slower months. Feeling warm from the inside out is the goal. I often say leadership starts from the inside out so this is even more reason to put in place some Winter wellbeing rituals.
1. Rug up and take a walk – Take a walk. Sitting inside working all day with the heater going and a lack of fresh air doesn’t create a healthy environment. Take time to get outside. Even on the coldest of days, a walk will warm you.
2. Read a book – Grab one of the books you’ve been meaning to read all year and actually open the pages. Curl up on a chair near the window and rest and read at the same time.
3. Go to bed when you’re tired – Bank up some sleep and energy. Listen to your body and head off to bed when you feel tired, even if it is at 8 pm!
4. Eat a warm breakfast – Have a slow morning and make a warm breakfast. Try rolled oats, a poached egg on toast or smashed avo!
5. Make three nights a week home nights – Block out three nights per week where you stay home guilt free.
Over to You
Do any of these resonate for you? Could any be helpful as you head into Winter days, weeks and months?
