Imbalance or In Balance?
Are you effective in your work, or have you become a workaholic with consequences for everyone around you?
Many leaders on the Inspiring Leadership Podcast have candidly shared their struggles with maintaining a healthy work-life balance, acknowledging the consequences of overwork and the importance of prioritising well-being. Here are five quotes from these leaders, highlighting their personal experiences and insights:
- Dr. Todd Dewett, author and leadership expert, Episode 109.
“I had a good 5 to 7 years…where I neglected my health way too much.”
Todd reflects on a period in his life when he neglected his health due to an intense work focus. This personal admission underscores the importance of prioritising your physical and mental well-being, even amidst demanding work schedules.
- Emma Kane, CEO SEC Newgate, Episode 118.
“Showing people that you can still have a life, you can look after your family…whilst you can make things happen. I think that work-life balance, recharging your batteries and being a human being is a very important part of that leadership journey.”
Emma emphasises the importance of you modelling healthy boundaries. This highlights the need for you to set an example of balance, demonstrating that prioritising personal life is not a sign of weakness but rather a crucial aspect of sustainable leadership.
- Ben Atkinson, Linkedin & AWS, co-host of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, Episode 117.
“We’ve interviewed quite a few Senior Leaders on the Podcast that are very high achievers…they tend to be all in and burn bright, but sometimes not for very long.”
Ben observes that you may push yourself to your limits as a high-achiever. This insight highlights the potential for you burning out and the need for sustainable practices to maintain your long-term well-being and effectiveness.
- Lieutenant General James Bashall CB CBE, Army Home Command, Episode 61.
“It’s making sure you do have interests outside work…that you can switch off and decompress and think about something else.”
James emphasises the importance of carving out time for your personal pursuits and interests. His advice encourages you to cultivate hobbies and activities beyond your professional responsibilities, allowing for your mental and emotional rejuvenation.
- Phillipa Snare, Facebook and SVP of EMEA at The Trade Desk, Episode 101.
“You can get a lot more done in a shorter amount of time if you actually just switch off and step away and come back with a fresh perspective.”
Philippa advocates you taking breaks and prioritising your rest to maintain your focus and productivity. This practical tip emphasises the value of stepping back from your work to gain clarity and return with renewed energy and focus.
- Larry English, CEO of Centric Consulting, Episode 153.
“I’ve had to go talk to a number of leaders and say, I need you to take vacation. I need you to be a great example because we want our leaders to be recharged and ‘in balance’, not imbalanced. You’re fresher if you have a better-balanced life.”
Larry advocates for you to adopt a flexible “results-only work environment” but recognises your crucial role in modelling healthy work habits. This highlights the importance of you actively encouraging and supporting your teams in prioritising their well-being, recognising its positive impact on individual and organisational performance.
