The summer of 2022 is shaping up as one for the ages. Droughts, wildfires, flash floods, and other major weather events headline the nightly news. It is as if the natural world is screaming at us to stop what we are doing. Closer to home, we cling to tried and true practices of staying hydrated, wearing a hat and sunscreen, and working or exercising outdoors in the early mornings. Yet those seem like feeble responses in the face of this powerful force.
In moments like these, leaders can become granular in their thinking, words, and behaviors. We do so to satisfy our primal need for safety, comfort, and control. Then, with a nod to fight or flight, we dive into the coping pool with our eyes fixed on Labor Day as if that long weekend will replenish our reserves for what lies ahead in the fall. If only. This moment cries out for something different.
As leaders, we are constantly searching for daily practices that can create more physical and emotional bandwidth over time. Both are required in massive quantities to live in this complex world. This summer I am embracing the 3 Rs–rest, recovery, and reflection—as a new practice and it goes like this:
- Slow down…let your mind wander to thoughts of vacation at the beach, lake, or mountains or attending a family reunion or special gathering of those we love.
- Breathe deep…put down worries you are carrying for yourself and your loved ones for a few precious moments.
- Think…about who is most important in our lives and why we care so much about them.
- Hydrate…because water is life.
- Reflect…on our core values and how they impact new challenges and opportunities in our lives.
Twice a day–first thing in the morning and then again in early evening–I take a few quiet minutes to slow down, think, and feel. No social media or phone, no emails or texts, and no work-related meetings whenever possible. I pay particular attention to those thoughts and feelings which generate much joy or concern. And I write down those that transcend the days because they are occupying significant space in my head and heart.
There is a discipline to this daily practice that requires a personal investment of time. But the return on this investment—a real-time emotional inventory–is worth its weight in gold to me. It feeds my desire for greater authenticity, empathy, and self-awareness in my life. It reinforces my core belief in life-long learning. Last and most important, it reminds me that I fall short most days and that humility is the best teacher.
I hope you find this practice informative and encourage you to adopt this or your own alternative during the month of August.