FOR THE LOVE OF LEADERSHIP ARCHIVE

Permission to Reset and Refocus

I don't know about you, but I am not built for operating at 100% capacity 100% of the time. My brain knows when it needs to pump the brakes.

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Like today - when I tried to switch from writing the agenda for a team retreat I'm facilitating next week to writing this newsletter - my brain used one of its classic signs to let me know it wasn't having it: procrastination.

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I opened a Google Doc, stared at the blank template for a few moments, and then:

  • Opened a new tab in my browser and bought a pair of my most comfortable pants in navy
  • Researched the rewards program on my new credit card
  • Texted my cat sitter to see if she's available while I’m away in a couple of weeks

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Sometimes our energy isn’t where we want it to be.

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If you’re anything like me, the strict, “get back to work and don’t stop until it’s done” approach that used to work just doesn't cut it anymore.

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So, this is your permission to take a break and gently shift your attention back to what will leave you feeling best at the end of the day.

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Here's what worked for me today:

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👀 I noticed that I was off track and doing things that weren't exactly helping.

🚶🏻‍♀️‍➡️ I walked down to the cul-de-sac and back for a change of scenery.

🤝 I joined a co-working session - the shared energy and accountability got me right back to writing-mode.

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Forcing and “shoulding” never works as well as giving myself some grace, doing something to reset, and then getting back to it.

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And, look, here we are - newsletter going out on time and everything ❤️.

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In it together,

Laura

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PS - Leadership can feel hard and is never picture-perfect. Give yourself whatever grace you need today and don’t forget to ask for support when you need it.

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PPS - One of the most supportive people in my world right now is Brooke Hofsess. She is a brilliant coach and her emails always offer meaningful reflections and insights. You can learn more about her and her work here.​