Written by: Francis Eijsackers, Expert Contributor
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As an Outstanding Leadership Award recipient, I’ve learned that the key to success isn’t just about making bold decisions or achieving targets. It’s about taking a step back and engaging in meaningful reflection.
This practice is not only crucial for our mental health but also for our effectiveness as leaders. So, let’s delve into the world of reflection and discover how it can transform our leadership!
Self-Reflection: Not Just Navel-Gazing
For leaders, self-reflection is more than just a personal practice; it’s a powerful tool that can enhance your leadership skills, improve team dynamics, and drive organisational success.
By understanding ourselves better, we can lead with greater authenticity, empathy, and effectiveness.
Self-Reflection: Your Mental Health’s Best Friend
Let’s face it, self-reflection isn’t just a fancy coaching technique; it’s a vital tool for maintaining our mental health.
By regularly examining our thoughts and feelings, we can identify stress triggers, celebrate our victories (no matter how small), and course-correct when needed. It’s like giving our mind a spa day – refreshing, rejuvenating, and absolutely necessary!
The Power of Pause
Nowadays it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of daily tasks and forget to check in with ourselves. However, self-reflection in leadership allows us to slow down, assess our thoughts and emotions, and gain valuable insights.
It’s not just about looking back; it’s about looking inward and forward, helping us align our actions with our true selves and goals.
My Fabulous Five: Tips for Reflective Leadership
Now, let’s get to the good stuff!
Here are my top five tips for incorporating reflection into your leadership practice:
1. Schedule Your “Me Time”: Block out 15 minutes each day for reflection. Treat it like an important meeting – with yourself!
2. Journal Like a Boss: Keep a leadership journal. Jot down your thoughts, challenges, and victories. It’s like having a personal leadership coach on paper.
3. Walk and Talk: Take a reflective walk. Nature has a way of clearing our minds and sparking new ideas. Plus, it’s great for your physical health too!
4. Feedback Fiesta: Regularly seek feedback from your team. Their perspectives can offer valuable insights for your reflection.
5. Mindfulness Moments: Incorporate mindfulness practices into your routine. Even a few minutes of focused breathing can enhance your self-awareness and decision-making skills.
Remember, self-reflection isn’t about being perfect; it’s about progress.
It’s okay to stumble, laugh at yourself, and learn along the way. The most important thing is to keep at it!
As we navigate the complex world of leadership and mental health, let’s remember: self-reflection is a lifeline that keeps us grounded, focused, and ready to tackle whatever challenges come our way.
So, my fellow leaders, are you ready to embark on this reflective journey? Trust me, your future self (and your team) will thank you for it.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with my leadership journal and a nice cup of tea. Happy reflecting!
About the Author
Francis Eijsackers, MBA, is an award-winning entrepreneur and mental health professional, with a passion for networking and connecting with people globally. She is the CEO of Francis4YourPractice, an organisation and consultancy agency specialising in interim management, people management, and practice organisation for the healthcare sector.
Francis4YourPractice provides essential support to healthcare organisations, working purposefully, results-oriented, and passionately to optimise your operations. With extensive experience managing over 700 people, Francis is an invaluable resource for tackling questions about leadership, integrity, and mental health for leaders.
Her motto? Never stop learning—commit to lifelong development.
For more information, visit https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-eijsackers/
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