As the holiday season unfolds in New Zealand, a unique energy fills the air. Most people are on a well-deserved break, reconnecting with loved ones or simply recharging. For many professionals, though, this time can be a double-edged sword—a chance to relax but also a challenge to truly switch off from work.
In my experience as a professional coach and trainer, I’ve noticed how intertwined our sense of purpose and work can become. It’s what drives us, gives us fulfilment, and challenges us to grow. Yet, when work becomes all-consuming, even during a time meant for rest, it can hinder both our personal well-being and professional effectiveness.
This holiday season, I’d like to share some thoughts and strategies on how to maintain boundaries while staying engaged with your purpose—because it is possible to do both.
1. Acknowledge the Value of Rest
Purposeful work is sustained by purposeful rest. Just as high-performing athletes build rest days into their training schedules, professionals need downtime to recharge their mental and emotional reserves. Remind yourself: rest isn’t laziness—it’s preparation.
Tip: Schedule “unplugged” blocks of time where you intentionally disconnect from work-related activities, emails, and notifications.
2. Define Clear Boundaries
It’s tempting to check emails or take calls, especially when you’re passionate about your work. But without boundaries, the lines between work and personal life blur, leaving you feeling neither fully present at home nor fully focused on work.
Tip: Communicate your holiday availability clearly to colleagues or clients, and stick to it. A simple out-of-office message can set expectations and give you peace of mind.
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3. Stay Mindfully Engaged with Your Purpose
Switching off doesn’t mean abandoning your purpose—it means nurturing it differently. Use this time to reflect on the bigger picture: what you’ve accomplished, where you’re heading, and how you want to grow.
Tip: Journal your thoughts, take a reflective walk, or engage in a creative activity that inspires you. These practices allow your mind to stay engaged in meaningful ways without the stress of immediate deadlines.
4. Build Rituals that Support Work-Life Balance
Creating rituals—like morning coffee without screens, evening gratitude journaling, or daily family walks—grounds you in the present. These rituals anchor you in the moment, providing structure without rigidity.
Tip: If you feel the itch to be productive, channel it into these grounding rituals rather than back into work.
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5. Embrace the Season’s Lessons
The holiday season is a perfect reminder that connection, generosity, and slowing down are vital for a fulfilling life. By fully embracing this time, you enrich not only your personal life but also the depth you bring to your professional one.
Tip: Reflect on how the values of the season—kindness, gratitude, and presence—can be integrated into your leadership or professional life moving forward.
That's all for this week! Remember, leadership is a journey of continuous growth and learning. Keep exploring, keep growing, and keep leading.
Until next time,
The 'Leading Today" Newsletter team at Core Purpose.
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