As the year draws to a close, the weight of constant demands seems to grow heavier. We’ve all heard the airplane safety instructions: “Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.” But how often do we live by that advice? For many professionals, year-end pressures magnify the relentless pace of work and life, leaving little time to recharge.
I see it in leaders who are burnt out—managing shrinking teams, adapting to constant change, and juggling personal commitments. The festive season, with its social obligations and family expectations, often adds to the pressure instead of easing it. Many were raised believing that asking for help signals weakness and that powering through every challenge is the only option. In today’s hyperconnected world, where responding to an email at 11pm feels mandatory, this mindset has become unsustainable.
Would you expect your car to run without refuelling or your favourite athlete to perform without recovery time? No? Then why expect it of yourself?
At this time of year, it’s especially important to manage your energy across four areas: Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual. Yet too often, we muddle through our days on autopilot, sustained by caffeine and skipping breaks to push through just one more task. And it’s worse now—when deadlines loom, annual targets demand to be met, and personal to-do lists grow ever longer.
Neglecting your wellbeing doesn’t just impact you. It ripples outward, affecting your team, your loved ones, and your ability to lead with impact. As a leader, you set the tone. When you prioritise your wellbeing, you inspire others to do the same.
What can you do?
The first thing I invite you to do is reframe self-care: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s strategic. Start by taking small, meaningful steps to reset your energy:
The festive season can be a time of renewal, but only if you allow yourself the grace to rest and recharge.
As this year closes, reflect on how you’re showing up for yourself and others. How are you fuelling your body, mind, and spirit? Are you leading with intention? The best gift you can give—to your team, your loved ones, and yourself—is a healthier, more energised you.
Let’s Begin the New Year Strong
I work with leaders to create actionable strategies that boost energy and resilience, even during challenging times. If you’re ready to reclaim your energy and lead by example, let’s talk.
With love,
Sue
I see it in leaders who are burnt out—managing shrinking teams, adapting to constant change, and juggling personal commitments. The festive season, with its social obligations and family expectations, often adds to the pressure instead of easing it. Many were raised believing that asking for help signals weakness and that powering through every challenge is the only option. In today’s hyperconnected world, where responding to an email at 11pm feels mandatory, this mindset has become unsustainable.
Would you expect your car to run without refuelling or your favourite athlete to perform without recovery time? No? Then why expect it of yourself?
At this time of year, it’s especially important to manage your energy across four areas: Physical, Emotional, Mental, and Spiritual. Yet too often, we muddle through our days on autopilot, sustained by caffeine and skipping breaks to push through just one more task. And it’s worse now—when deadlines loom, annual targets demand to be met, and personal to-do lists grow ever longer.
Neglecting your wellbeing doesn’t just impact you. It ripples outward, affecting your team, your loved ones, and your ability to lead with impact. As a leader, you set the tone. When you prioritise your wellbeing, you inspire others to do the same.
What can you do?
The first thing I invite you to do is reframe self-care: Self-care isn’t selfish—it’s strategic. Start by taking small, meaningful steps to reset your energy:
- Schedule a pause. Block out time for reflection or a restorative activity.
- Reprioritise. Focus on what truly matters and let go of non-essentials.
- Set boundaries. Resist the urge to answer every late-night email.
- Connect with joy. Make space for what rejuvenates you, whether it’s time with loved ones or simply a moment of quiet.
The festive season can be a time of renewal, but only if you allow yourself the grace to rest and recharge.
As this year closes, reflect on how you’re showing up for yourself and others. How are you fuelling your body, mind, and spirit? Are you leading with intention? The best gift you can give—to your team, your loved ones, and yourself—is a healthier, more energised you.
Let’s Begin the New Year Strong
I work with leaders to create actionable strategies that boost energy and resilience, even during challenging times. If you’re ready to reclaim your energy and lead by example, let’s talk.
With love,
Sue
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