Leadership doesn’t pause for the holidays. Whether you’re tackling year-end projects or spending time with loved ones, one truth remains: great leaders lead themselves first.
But what does that mean, especially during the holiday season, when life is anything but ordinary? It means finding clarity in your purpose, prioritizing meaningful self-care, and building resilience for life’s inevitable curveballs. Here’s how you can put these ideas into action, no matter where this season finds you.
1. Clarity Over Chaos
Start each day with a simple practice: ask yourself, “What’s the one thing that matters most today?”
- If you’re working: Write it down and prioritize it. For example, “Finalize the client presentation by noon.” This laser focus keeps you on track, even amidst distractions.
- If you’re holidaying: Your priority might be personal, like, “Unplug from devices and enjoy a board game with the kids.” Intentional choices bring fulfillment to your day, no matter the setting.
2. Purposeful Self-Care
Holidays blur routines, but small moments of self-care can ground you.
- If you’re working: Incorporate micro-breaks - such as a five-minute stretch or a brisk walk around the block. These tiny resets fuel your focus and energy.
- If you’re holidaying: Make the most of your downtime. Savor a hot drink while journaling or reflecting about your favorite moments from the year. It’s a chance to refill your emotional tank and reflect with gratitude.
3. Resilience in Action
Holiday challenges are unique - tight deadlines for some, unexpected family tensions for others. Try this three-step resilience practice:
- Take a deep breath.
- Identify one thing you can control.
- Act on it.
- If you’re working: If a project deadline changes, resilience might mean saying, “I’ll shift my schedule to prioritize this task and update my team by 3 PM.”
- If you’re holidaying: If plans go awry, like bad weather canceling your trip - turn the disappointment into an opportunity. “Let’s transform the day into a cozy movie marathon and game night instead."
The First Step to Transformative Leadership
At Leading From Within™, Optimising Your Leadership SOFTware, we believe leadership begins within. Our first pillar, “From Overwhelm to Clarity and Purposeful Self-Care,” equips leaders with tools to thrive in any situation.
Make this season your starting point for intentional leadership. Whether you’re on the clock or on holiday, leading yourself sets the foundation for a fulfilling year ahead.
Explore the LEADING FROM WITHIN™ Group Coaching Programme
Take Action Today
Are you ready to redefine your leadership in 2025? Enroll in the Leading From Within™ Coaching Programme by January 15, 2025, to enjoy a 15% early bird discount. Together, we’ll uncover your strengths and empower you to lead with clarity and resilience.
This holiday season, let clarity, self-care, and resilience guide your days. Start small, lead yourself first, and see how it transforms everything else.
Until next time,
The 'Leading Today' Newsletter team at Core Purpose.
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