Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Get Grounded or You Will Fail
I simply cannot believe it’s been 5 months since I last posted a blog! It’s not because I was doing nothing. In fact, quite the opposite is true. Here’s a quick rundown of what has transpired since May: listed and sold my Milwaukee home, added a Keynote Speaking component to my business, added another miniature schnauzer to the family (it’s only two of them but my learning curve was huge with the addition), and relocated Team Fusion to Atlanta. I was a bit busy to say the least.
I initiated all this activity and admit these were my choices. Imagine my surprise when things did not come together exactly as planned!
Have you made decisions for yourself or your team and were astonished at the outcome? Did you uncover characteristics within yourself you wish weren’t there? As a leader, you cannot bury your head in the sand but need to keep pressing on so your team remains confident in your abilities.
When the results are different than you envisioned it’s wise to spend some time reflecting on the situation. I discovered:
1. Managing energy is more important than managing time. You can accomplish more when you are at your physical/mental best. Get enough sleep, eat nutrient-dense food, and move your body every day. (I loathe “exercise” so now call it “movement.")
2. Spending 25% of your time connecting socially - not one word about business! - puts your world in better perspective. Getting grounded in a community (friends, family, neighbors, clubs, hobbies, church) gives you a sense of belonging and contributing to the lives of others. Do this consistently and not just for a few months.
3. Mantras keep you motivated. Lately, mine has been - “Never give up; never surrender!”
The minute I stopped thinking 100% about work is the minute I regained balance and perspective. I can now address those “ugly” behaviors that crept into my daily life because I now have the energy to pay attention. Remember, you are of no use to your team until you get grounded in ALL areas of your life.
Until next time...Live like you mean it!
Marjorie
