Tips for Balancing Tech Leadership and Personal Well-being

I make it a discipline to get out of New York City at least once a month. This time away from the usual demands of work is not just a luxury; it's an essential part of my productivity strategy. It allows me to return to my clients with renewed energy, sharper focus, and fresh insights. Establishing a recharge practice is something I coach my executive clients to do, too. Feel like that's impossible, given your demands as a leader? Even adopting shorter recovery practices can help increase clarity and focus. Here are a few you can try now: 1/ 🧘 Mindful Meditation: Evidence shows that just five minutes of focused breathing (deeper breaths consisting of 4 secs inhale, 2 secs hold, 4 secs exhale - in a smooth rhythm) at your desk can markedly reduce stress and sharpen focus. Start by setting a daily reminder to take a brief pause, close your eyes, and breathe deeply. 2/ 🌳 Nature Exposure: The benefits of connecting with nature and fresh air are profound and documented, including lowered stress levels and improved mood. For the busy executive, this could be as simple as institutionalizing a 10-minute walk outside during the day. 3/ 🙏Gratitude Journaling Ending your day by jotting down three things you're grateful for can transform your perspective and cultivate a positive mindset. This practice, taking only a few minutes, can significantly impact your emotional well-being, helping counterbalance a high-pressure environment. 4/ 📴 Digital Detox Allocate specific times of the day (e.g., during meals, the first hour after waking up, or leaving the phone outside the bedroom at night) as tech-free zones. This intentional break from digital devices can prevent stimulation overload, improve sleep quality, and enhance present-moment awareness. For executives, integrating these practices doesn't mean overhauling your schedule but rather inserting short moments of recovery that can lead to substantial benefits in stress management, productivity, and overall well-being. Pictured below—a trip last month to Big Sky, Montana, and the freshest of air and snow! #growth #leadership #leadershipanddevelopment #executivecoach

Struggling to balance leadership, board duties, and other commitments? You're not alone. Many business professionals find it challenging to maintain productivity while juggling multiple roles. Ignoring your well-being can lead to burnout and decreased efficiency. Poor sleep, unhealthy eating, and inadequate physical activity not only affect your health but also your ability to perform at your best. But you have the power to combat this by adopting healthy habits. Here's what worked for me: - Prioritize Sleep: Ensure consistent, quality sleep to enhance cognitive function. - Nutrition and Hydration: Opt for a balanced diet and stay hydrated for sustained energy. - Regular Exercise: Incorporate physical activity for mental and physical sharpness. - Effective Time Management: Be strategic with your schedule to maximize efficiency. - Digital Proficiency: Adapt to digital communication tools for effective connectivity. - Mental Health Care: Regular breaks and mindfulness practices are crucial. By adopting these practices, I transformed my productivity and well-being. How do you manage your well-being alongside professional responsibilities? Share your approach in the comments. #LeadershipWellness #WorkLifeBalance #HealthyLeaders #ProductivityTips #SelfCareInBusiness #MentalHealthMatters #HealthyHabits #TimeManagement #ProfessionalWellbeing #MindfulLeadership

CEOs, CFOs, COOs - the pressure of executive life is no joke. You're navigating complex decisions, driving change, and inspiring teams all while battling burnout. But here's the secret: effective leadership and personal growth aren't mutually exclusive, they're intertwined. Think you can't have both? Think again!  Here are 3 power moves for C-level executives to master the balancing act: 1. Prioritize self-awareness: ● Reflect: What are your strengths and weaknesses as a leader? What values drive your decisions? ●Seek feedback: Ask trusted colleagues for honest insights. 360° feedback can be a game-changer! ●Invest in coaching: A coach can help you unlock your potential and navigate leadership challenges. 2. Set clear boundaries: ● Schedule "unplug" time: Block out time in your calendar for self-care, hobbies, and family. Don't let work bleed into everything! ● Delegate effectively: Trust your team and empower them to take ownership. You'll be surprised what they can achieve! ● Embrace "no": Don't be afraid to say no to requests that don't align with your priorities or values. 3. Embrace continuous learning: ● Read industry publications and books: Stay ahead of the curve and gain new perspectives. ● Join a mastermind group: Connect with other leaders for peer-to-peer learning and support. ● Seek out new experiences: Travel, learn a new skill, or volunteer for a cause you care about. Growth comes in many forms! Leading yourself effectively is the foundation for leading others. By prioritizing your own well-being and growth, you'll be a more authentic, impactful, and inspiring leader. What are your best tips for balancing leadership and personal development? #ExecutiveLifeBalance #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalGrowthJourney #CLevelLeadership #SelfAwarenessLeadership

The best leaders focus on more than just their professional success. To create a balanced life, you need a framework and a plan. Here are six areas to reflect on to create more balance ⚖ Balance is a word we often hear, yet implementing it in our lives is another story. Without a solid plan and framework, we're just spinning our wheels. It's not always about improving the weakest areas, but rather focusing on where strategic changes can mitigate risks and seize opportunities. 1. Personal Growth Top executives don't just excel in the boardroom; they also invest in their well-being and hobbies. Staying active and mentally sharp is crucial, whether it's through sports, reading, or any activity that fosters growth. 2. Family Life It's easy for work to consume us, but family — both immediate and extended — forms our core support system. Balancing career ambitions with family time is essential for stress relief and happiness. 3. Friendships Having close friends outside of work and family circles is rare for many leaders, yet these relationships are invaluable. Friends offer unbiased support and can challenge us in ways that propel personal growth. 4. Career Planning Thinking long-term about your career trajectory and setting ambitious goals are key to fulfillment. This means constantly adding new skills and perspectives to your executive toolkit. 5. Financial Health While earning is important, true financial stability comes from wise management, saving, and investing. It's about ensuring future security and opportunities, not just increasing your income. 6. Contributing to Society Eventually, financial success gives way to seeking a broader impact by making a difference in the community and leaving a lasting legacy. It's about leveraging your success to benefit others and future generations. Living a balanced life enriches both personal satisfaction and professional success. The most effective leaders I know are those who find creative ways to nurture various aspects of their lives simultaneously. For me, traveling with my family and serving on the Board of the Ronald McDonald House Charities has been incredibly rewarding, ticking several boxes at once. Do you have any tips on how to achieve work/life balance? Please share in the Comments 👇 🔽 🔽 🔽 👋 Hi, I'm Lisa. Thanks for checking out my Post!   Here is what you can do next ⬇️   ➕ Follow me for more leadership insights   🔔 Hit the bell on my profile to be notified when I post   💬 Share your ideas or insights in the comments ♻ Inform others in your network via a Share or Repost #leadership #finance #cfo #business #motivation

From Panic Attacks to Peak Performance: My Journey. Ever hit rock bottom with burnout? I did, in the least expected place—a grocery store. 🧠 Here's how I turned my lowest point into a lesson in resilience: → Sleep: A book by speep expert Nick Littlehales (details in comments) transformed my view on sleep, teaching me the power of 90-minute cycles for rejuvenation. → Nutrition: Another read by Jessie Inchauspe (details in comments) showed me how to stabilize glucose levels, enhancing daily energy. → Exercise: Whether it's swimming or a walk, physical activity became my stress buster and creativity booster. This transformation wasn't just personal; it reshaped my approach to startup leadership. Prioritizing well-being is not a luxury—it's a necessity for sustainable success. How do you balance the demands of leadership with personal well-being? Let's exchange insights and strategies. #leadership #wellness #personaldevelopment #mindfulness #worklifebalance #mentalhealth #selfcare #productivity ~~~ Found this helpful? Consider sharing 📤 and follow me Marco Franzoni for similar insights!

👩🏼💼As leaders, we often find ourselves consumed by the demands of our professional lives. The pressure to succeed, grow, and develop can be all-consuming. However, amidst the chaos, it is crucial to recognize the significance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which includes spending quality time with our families and taking care of ourselves. ➡️Strengthening Personal Relationships: Leadership is not just about achieving professional milestones; it is also about nurturing meaningful connections with loved ones. ➡️ Leading by Example: As leaders, we have the power to influence those around us. By prioritizing family and self-care, we set a positive example for our team members and colleagues. Demonstrating the importance of work-life balance not only encourages others to do the same but also creates a culture that values well-being and personal growth. This, in turn, leads to increased productivity, engagement, and overall team satisfaction. ➡️Enhancing Branding and Reputation: Authenticity is a key aspect of effective leadership. When you prioritize family and self-care, you demonstrate that you are not solely defined by your professional accomplishments. This humanizes your brand and showcases your commitment to holistic success. By sharing stories and experiences related to your personal life, you connect with others on a deeper level, building trust and loyalty. ➡️ Boosting Mental and Physical Well-being: Leadership can be mentally and physically demanding, often leading to burnout and decreased performance. Taking time for yourself and engaging in activities that promote well-being, such as exercise, hobbies, and relaxation, is essential for maintaining optimal mental and physical health. By prioritizing self-care, you recharge your energy, increase focus, and enhance your ability to make sound decisions. ➡️Continuous Growth and Development: Leadership is a journey of constant learning and growth. By investing time in personal development, you expand your knowledge, skills, and perspectives. Spending quality time with your family and engaging in self-care activities can provide valuable insights, inspiration, and new ideas that can be applied to your professional life. It is through these experiences that you become a more well-rounded and effective leader. In the pursuit of professional success, it is easy to neglect the importance of family, self-care, and personal growth. However, by prioritizing these aspects of our lives, we not only create a healthier work-life balance but also become more authentic, influential, and fulfilled leaders. Remember, taking care of yourself and spending time with your loved ones is not a luxury but a necessity for long-term success and happiness. Embrace the power of balance, and watch as it transforms not only your personal life but also your professional journey. Below is a picture of my sweet family our oldest turned 8 this past weekend. It’s bittersweet.

Efficiency in leadership is crucial, but too much focus on tasks can lead to unintended consequences. The relentless pursuit of productivity often sidelines vital aspects like building relationships, inspiring teams, and showing empathy. Research indicates that an intense focus on efficiency might make leaders less effective overall. The downsides include negative impacts on organizational climate, team burnout, and personal costs for leaders, such as blocked promotions or termination. Balance is the key! Successful leaders harmonize task-focus with people-focus, recognizing the importance of going slow to go fast. It's not just about being efficient; it's about being effective. The power of effective leaders lies in strong people skills. Leaders who strike a balance understand the broader organizational needs, avoid reactive behaviors, and empower their teams. If you sense an imbalance, take proactive steps: - Seek Feedback: Gauge your task-focus vs. people-focus through candid conversations or involve an executive coach for a third-party perspective. - Identify High-Value People Practices: Incorporate feedback to establish genuine practices like regular career development talks, distraction-free conversations, or casual coffees with colleagues. - Self-Observation and Reflection: Be present in real-time, reflecting on impatience or haste. Explore your underlying motivations and fears. - De-bunk Limiting Beliefs: Challenge beliefs hindering balance by talking to leaders who successfully manage both aspects. - Practice Self-Management: Enhance self-awareness to pause and choose a balanced approach, ensuring both tasks and people are valued. - Efficiency without a balanced people-focus may limit success. Strive for effectiveness by embracing the synergy of task and people orientation. #Leadership #EffectiveLeadership #Balance #LeadershipDevelopment #TaskFocus #PeopleFocus

The world is full of givers and takers. Givers sacrifice their own success in order to help others despite the impact on their work and relationships. Takers focus on their own needs but don't sustain success due to poor relationships and dependency on others. Without a balance, you sacrifice your personal and professional growth causing you to: Burn out Stifle your growth Build resentment Blur boundaries Instead: Develop Self-Awareness: Do you always say 'yes', even when overwhelmed? Do you frequently work overtime? Understanding your patterns is the first step to changing them. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries regarding your professional and personal time. Communicate these calmly and firmly to your team. It's healthy and important to prioritize your well-being. Learn To Delegate: If you're in a position of authority, ensure that tasks are evenly distributed among your team. Delegation reduces your burden and helps others develop professional skills. Value Self-Care: Incorporate downtime and self-care into your routine. Recharging and maintaining a balanced professional and personal life is a necessity. Develop Negotiation Skills: Instead of readily agreeing to every demand, learn to negotiate. Present logical arguments that positively support your perspective. This will allow you to better navigate your workload, schedule, and growth. Instead of setting yourself on fire, teach others how to find their own wood.

𝟰 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗣𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲𝘀 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗦𝗲𝗹𝗳-𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲 - Leaders must first fill their cups before they can pour into others. When leaders don't prioritize self-care to maintain mental, emotional, and physical well-being, they are disadvantaged in their abilities to accurately perceive situations, build relationships, make decisions, and manage stress. The good news is that even during extended periods of challenge, there are things leaders can do to develop and grow their well-being and guard against burnout. Investing in self-care gives leaders the energy and mindset to care for those they lead. 𝟭) 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗜𝗻 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀 - Hybrid working arrangements have made it difficult for leaders to build and maintain strong workplace relationships. Not taking the time to build relationships at work is problematic because a strong social support system is the most important thing we can do to establish and maintain our well-being. Countless research studies have found that social relationships are the best guarantee of heightened well-being, lowered stress, and increased physical health. 𝟮) 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗧𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗧𝗼 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗴𝗲 - Research shows when leaders recharge and renew, they get more done in less time at a higher level of quality and in a more sustainable way. Since our energy is limited, leaders need to find ways to recharge their batteries.  • Visit work friends • Short breaks throughout the day • Focus on gratitude • Get up and move • Focus on work that exercises a strength 𝟯) 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽 𝗔 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗲𝘁 - Leaders must learn to view stressful situations as being a challenge rather than being a threat. Too much stress is detrimental to well–being and resilience, but the right amount can be used as a motivational tool to get more done. Stress can improve cognitive ability and increase productivity and memory. Good stress tends to trigger the "challenge" response, which prompts us to step up, focus, and execute. 𝟰) 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀 𝗢𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹 - If a leader believes that they have control over what happens in a specific situation, they have what psychologists call an internal locus of control. If they think that they have no control over what happens and that external variables are to blame, then they have what is known as an external locus of control. Research shows that individuals who have an internal locus of control are more likely to: • Take responsibility for their actions • Have a strong sense of self-belief about being able to succeed • Work hard to achieve the things they want • Feel confident in the face of challenges • Achieve greater success in the workplace Do you agree? Share your COMMENTS below. ⤵️   𝗛𝗶𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 🔔 𝗼𝗻 𝗺𝘆 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗯𝗲 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗲𝗱 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗜 𝗽𝗼𝘀𝘁 | Tony Gambill #leadership #management #careers #selfleadership