Introduction
Trust me, I get it. The endless to-do lists, the pressure to perform, and let’s not forget about balancing work, home, and a sliver of personal life. Been there, got the t-shirt, and the emotional scars to prove it. But what if I told you that the secret to authentic, fulfilling leadership could be as simple as defining your values and mission? Intrigued? Let’s dive in.
The Emotional Toll of Unclear Values
I remember a time when I was scaling my business, dealing with family demands, and sitting on several community boards. My schedule was packed, yet I felt lost. Why? Because I hadn't clarified my values. The toll on my mental health was considerable—leading to burnout.
Exercise: Identify Your Top 5 Values
Grab a pen, some paper, and maybe even a glass of wine. List 10-15 values that resonate with you. Prioritise them and genuinely ask yourself if your actions reflect these values. I've done this, and it was an emotional but liberating experience.
How Values Speed Up Decision-Making
Once your values are clear, making decisions becomes far less stressful. You can easily ask, "Is this in alignment with my values?" If the answer is no, it's much easier to set a boundary and say no. This alone can be transformative, reducing stress and increasing your mental clarity.
The Power of a Personal Mission Statement
Your personal mission statement isn't just some fluffy words on a piece of paper; it's your emotional and professional North Star. When I was at my lowest, revisiting my mission statement acted like a life raft.
Exercise: Crafting Your Personal Mission Statement
This isn't just a task; it's an emotional journey. Reflect on what matters most to you. Create a draft and keep refining it. Put it in your phone or stick it on your bathroom mirror. Somewhere you can see it, especially on the days you're drowning in emails and to-dos.
The Synergy Between Values and Mission
Your values and mission are a match made in heaven—or should be. When they are in sync, the benefits to your mental health and stress levels are exponential. It becomes your shield against overwhelm and your ticket to authentic decision-making.
Your Authentic Self is Your Best Self
In my 25 years working in mental health, I’ve seen the transformation that occurs when women leaders align their actions with their values and mission. It's like a weight lifts, stress dissipates, and they become the authentic leaders they were meant to be.
Conclusion
We all have days where we feel like a fraud or feel crushed under the weight of expectations. But, defining your values and mission can act like your personal lifebuoy, keeping you afloat in the choppy seas of leadership.
Become Burnout Proof
Feel like it's time to get serious about making yourself burnout proof? Join our online women's group where you can safely explore these crucial aspects of leadership with others who get it. Click [here] to connect with your tribe and transform your leadership journey.