For today’s leader, a high energy level is a pre-requisite. Technology has ushered in a whole new way of connecting and being connected in what is now an “always on” mode. A leadership role is very demanding. You must be at your best, at all times, in order to effectively inspire and empower others to do their best. It’s important that you consistently demonstrate what it means (and looks like) to be a great leader.
To play at the top of your game, healthy living is essential. What does that mean? First, it means healthy eating. A balanced diet of fresh and healthy meals is essential for creating and sustaining energy throughout your day. It begins with breakfast, lunch and dinner with healthy small snacks in between.
Skipping meals, eating fast-food, and microwaving your meals doesn’t create healthy energy. Eating consistently and properly is important for clear thinking and for maintaining an even energy level.
Exercise is another important component of healthy living. Daily exercise is best. Before you engage in any sort of regimen, make sure you’ve consulted your medical doctor so you understand all the risks for you and your body. I enjoy a daily yoga regimen with several days of cardio/aerobic workout.
Finally, getting adequate rest is another important component to maintaining adequate energy levels. Go to sleep at a regular time each day. Take weekends off, away from work, cell phones, and the internet so you can refresh your mind and spirit. And, it’s important to engage in your hobbies and other activities that you enjoy. These provide another type of necessary “rest” for your mind and body.
Healthy living is your number one priority. If you’re not healthy, you can’t be an effective leader. Schedule these activities – exercise, eating, resting – into your planner so that you know they’ll get done. If you don’t take care of you, no one will. By taking care of yourself, you’ll ensure you have the energy and stamina to be a leader – to take charge and move forward.
What activities do you engage in on a regular basis to keep energized both physically and mentally? What changes could you make and when will you schedule these things into your calendar? Start as soon as you can. The sooner you do, the faster you’ll develop healthy habits that will serve you well in all aspects of your life.
“The task of the leader is to get his people from where they are to where they have not been.” — Henry Kissinger
Tara Kachaturoff is the creator, producer and host of Michigan Entrepreneur TV, a weekly television talk show featuring business leaders and businesses from start-up to stellar. With over 15 years of experience in corporate finance in the tech sector, she now coaches executives, business professionals, and entrepreneurs on leadership, management, productivity, and marketing issues. Tara is also the author of 21 Qualities of a Leader from which this article is excerpted.
