Power up your leadership habits in times of Covid
Five suggestions for developing a rock-solid new routine that will put you back on track, keep your spirits lifted and your motivation soaring……no matter what comes your way.
Whatever anyone was expecting at the start of 2020, few of us could have imagined quite how the last few months were going to pan out. While its been encouraging to see how, in the main, people have quickly adapted to internet working, we’ve also come across a whole new set of challenges that just weren’t there before.
Spending day after day “working from home”, not being able to head out to meet colleagues at work or attending social gatherings can start an introspection which may not be wholly healthy. Meantime, whilst struggling to lead the business in these turbulent times, small things like finding a “quiet” corner from where you can have business calls and those interminable video conference calls “mute button, bottom left hand side” can prove to be additional sources of stress. In addition, you will be juggling a role where the workforce is looking for your leadership on top of all these things too.
At a time, when we are all feeling anxious, whether it’s about work, personal or business health, the economy, or our loved ones, slipping back into old habits can be all too easy. Working long hours, not delegating, and limiting your communications, can all contribute to a bigger picture that can impact both the business and your mental health and wellbeing.
While the outside world is increasingly uncertain, positive habits can keep us grounded. As well as providing that important sense of normality, staying on your own track can give us a different kind of emotional comfort by boosting our confidence and feelings of accomplishment as well as giving you back control.
Don’t let the story of Covid-19 control you.
Instead, control your own story. Work positive habits into your day even when life is unpredictable.
- Design a regular routine.
This is helpful and may not be something you have considered in these times. Book slots during the day for yourself when you are doing physical activities to improve your quality of life – a walk or something more strenuous if you prefer. - Identify a ‘Go to person or Group of individuals’
It is important to maintain that all-important sense of connection and belonging. Frame the areas in your life where you believe that you would benefit from more information or collaboration.
Find people with empathy or deep understanding who care. Consider finding a Coach. Discover colleagues with whom you can chat socially as well as exchange business information. Search out a couple of people whom you think may be able to provide answers to specific questions or have tips and suggestions that may work for you.
The internet is brimming with helpful suggestions and support groups for every type of interest and question. - Stay connected and expand your horizons
The wonderful thing about the virtual world is that borders hold no barriers. Many of my friends and colleagues are back in touch with people they had lost contact with long ago. Make a list of all those people who have crossed your mind over time “I wonder what they are up to now?”. Create a plan to track them down and talk to them. - Work out your ‘why’
We all know how easily our motivation can be affected by unforeseen circumstances. So, take stock and think about the deeper reasons you want to be a leader and do the work you do every day. What gets you out of bed each day? Write down the lasting reasons you are working? How would you feel happier or more confident? How could you be more effective? How would you feel healthier? These ambitions will feed into habits that start small but last longer term.
Whenever you feel commitment has slipped, don’t look back with regret. Be delighted by your progress so far. Start a new day and move forwards. - Embrace change.
Turn unforeseen challenges into opportunities. It can be fun looking for new ways to achieve your ambitions. Additionally, changing it up can revitalise you if you are bored with your current routine. Make positive choices to meet your ambitions. If you make a choice that’s not so helpful, move on and think of the next.
Sometimes, it’s good to be out of your Comfort Zone. When you start making positive new habits stick, you’ll be amazed how far you will go.