First a quote: “Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.” – Anne Lamott
Hello and happy Monday.
Have you ever called a help-desk about a malfunctioning electronic device? If so, then you already know the first steps they will, likely, ask you to take. Those steps?
-
Unplug.
-
Count to 10; or 30 for good measure.
-
Try it again.
There just seems to be something magical about powering down, taking a break, rebooting, and trying again. I propose this same process is true for us humans as well. Sometimes, we just need to power down, take a break, reboot, recharge, and try again.
In today’s fast-paced world, where our smartphones are practically an extension of our hands and our inboxes are constantly flooded with emails, the concept of truly unplugging from work may seem like a distant dream.
However, taking time to disconnect from our professional responsibilities is not only important, but also essential for our well-being… and perhaps, for the well-being of those around us.
“An empty lantern provides no light. Self-care is the fuel that allows your light to shine brightly.” – unknown
I have noticed an unfortunate paradox in many areas of my life, perhaps you have as well.
For instance, there have been times in my marriage when I needed to be “my very best self” as a husband. And occasionally, during those times, I have unfortunately been at my worst.
Likewise, there have been times when I needed to be “my best self” as a parent, and again, I have occasionally been at my worst, or certainly not at my best. Perhaps I was tired, stressed, overworked, or was simply careless. Regardless of the reason, I wasn’t the parent I desired to be, or that my children needed me to be.
Of course, this phenomenon also happens to us at work as well. I can think of similar situations, as a leader, where my team needed me to be at my best, and for whatever reason, I fell short of what they needed most from me.
This paradox comes at the expense of those around us. It can be destructive to our most important relationships. I find it ironic that when we need to be “our best selves,” (often during times of conflict, stress, pressure, and/or change) we are sometimes at our worst.
This is when “self-care” comes into play. Sometimes, unplugging is the right thing to do.
What does “unplugging” look like for you?
Following are a few tips:
-
Set clear boundaries: Communicate with colleagues and supervisors about your intention to unplug during your time off. Communicate when you’re available for interruptions and when you wish to be undisturbed, unless in an emergency.
-
Use technology to your advantage: Leverage technology by setting up out-of-office email notifications and automatic responses. This informs others that you’re unavailable and sets expectations.
-
Restrict your open-door policy: In most organizations, having an open-door policy is seen as a good thing. I agree. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean “always open.” You may want to consider published “office hours” when your door is indeed always open.
-
Plan your breaks: Schedule regular breaks and vacations throughout the year to ensure you have time to disconnect from work and relax.
-
Create a routine: Develop a pre and post-work routine to help transition your mind from work mode to relaxation mode. This could include meditation, exercise, or simply a calming cup of tea.
-
Schedule time for recreation: (see definition below) Engage in hobbies and activities that you enjoy during your time off. Doing what you love can be an excellent way to unplug and recharge.
Have you taken time to re-create your thinking? Maybe it’s time for a little recreation!
What do you do to recharge, refresh, reboot, reconnect, and rejuvenate? What actions do you take to ensure that are your “best self” when needed most?
I welcome your ideas on this topic.
Related Articles:
Bonus Quotes Below.
Do you know someone who might benefit from this weekly leadership minute? If so, please feel free to pass along the subscription link below:
-
On LinkedIn: Click here to subscribe to the MMM newsletter on LinkedIn.(Recommended)
-
Via email: Click here to subscribe to MMM and have it sent directly to your email inbox each Monday. (Please note: I plan to discontinue this service later this fall. If you’re on LinkedIn, I recommend subscribing with link above.)
How will you lead, or live, differently, or better, this week?
Have a great week!
Bryan Yager
“Expanding Your Capacity for Success”
Bonus Quotes:
-
“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of water.” – Benjamin Franklin
-
“Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” – Edward Stanley
-
“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is relax .” – Mark Black
-
There is more to life than increasing its speed.” – Mahatma Gandhi
-
“How do you define ‘taking care of yourself’? Create a new self-care practice today. Observe your comfort level when it comes to being good to yourself. Discomfort is a wise teacher.”– Caroline Myss and Peter Occhiogrosso
-
“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths.” – Etty Hillesum
-
“Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.” – L. R. Knost
-
“Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.” – William Burroughs
-
Calm mind brings inner strength and self-confidence, so that’s very important for good health. ” – Dalai Lama
-
Slow down and everything you are chasing will come around and catch you. ” – John De Paola
-
Your calm mind is the ultimate weapon against your challenges. So relax. ” – Bryant McGill
