Don’t let your personal wellness slide. If you don’t take care of yourself, you won’t be able to lead your team.

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Prioritize your wellness. A leader’s own mental, physical and emotional wellness needs to be a top priority. As they say, you need to put your own mask on first. An overstressed, burnt-out leader won’t be much use to his or her team. On a daily basis, find a way to break a sweat, recalibrate mentally, and do something to either lift your spirits or help you relax. This can be spending time with family, bingeing on Netflix, reading a good book—whatever helps to “fill the “spirit tank” (life your spirits).

Once you’ve ensured your own well-being, it’s time to check in on your team. Be sure to intersperse the usual team meetings with some one-on-ones. Ask how each person is doing and offer support as needed.

Source: “3 things leaders should prioritize right now (and always, actually),” The Art of Leadership, April 16, 2020

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Don’t skip vacation. Taking a vacation helps us to recharge and refresh, increasing productivity, lowering stress, improving our mental health and spurring greater creativity.

While you probably won’t be able to take a standard vacation this year, you can still reap the benefits. Get a change of scenery, even if it’s just a short road trip. Rent an RV or go on a food excursion in your own city—seeking out the best versions of your favorite foods. Take some time to view the fall foliage or go to a nearby farm to pick your own apples or pumpkins.

It’s important to plan ahead, both to reduce stress and enjoy the anticipation of having something to look forward to. Try to spend some time in nature—whether a national park or just a local one—and be sure to unplug and disconnect from work. Take pictures and videos so you have something to look back on. Recalling happy times can help head off stress, anxiety and depression.

Source: “Thinking of Skipping Vacation? Don’t!” Harvard Business Review, Aug. 11, 2020