1. Lead with empathy vs. sympathy. As l leaders, we don’t need to pity our team members, we need to lead them. “Empathy nurtures resilience, sympathy prolongs suffering.” Empathizing with others allows them to step up for themselves, versus enabling or allowing them to wallow. When a subordinate is going through a tough time or feeling stressed at work, try asking that person, “What do you need from me to get through this?” instead of sympathizing.

2. Ask more than you tell. As easy as it is to simply tell your employees what to do, this method is not helping them grow. Instead of micro-managing and giving away all of the answers, invest in their development so they can grow. When you ask more questions to help others find their own solutions, you are empowering them to become critical thinkers!

3. Eliminate negative self-talk and create an optimal mindset. Words matter, so choose them wisely. Before bed think about one thing you accomplished and can be proud of. According to the Mayo Clinic, researchers continue to explore the effects of positive thinking and optimism on health. Health benefits that positive thinking may provide include:

      • Increased life span

      • Lower rates of depression

      • Lower levels of distress

      • Greater resistance to the common cold

      • Better psychological and physical well-being

      • Better cardiovascular health and reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease

      • Better coping skills during hardships and times of stress

4. Define what work-life balance means to you. Prioritize activities for self-care, vacation – and don’t forget to set boundaries. Think about what brings you joy and schedule it into your daily routine.  Another EntreCon® keynote speaker, Emily Ley, also suggests this in her Simplified® planner. Ley says the trick to simplifying is to name the things that matter most (these might include your spouse, children, families, parents, careers, entrepreneurial endeavors, home, church, volunteering, etc.) and make time for it. We choose how we spend every hour each day, why not be more intentional with how you spend them?

5. Commit time for self-reflection. Accept where you are right now. Ask questions such as, “How am I preparing for what is next?” Recognize resistance and personal preferences that prevent you from moving forward. Reflect and reframe your mindset to embrace change.

6. Surround yourself with people who lift you up. You know, those who see what you are capable of, and hold you to a higher standard than you may hold yourself at times. Everybody needs a dream team.