Dan Schawbel* says that as the pandemic drags on, it is more important than ever that leaders prioritise wellness both for themselves and their employees.
As we move further into 2022, there’s a continuing uncertainty about what the months ahead will bring.
We’re all continuing to feel the impact of COVID-19, companies are grappling with whether or not to reopen their offices, and the Great Resignation is affecting managers and workers alike.
A new study from Oracle NetSuite found that executives and managers are feeling the effects of burnout even more so than their employees.
They are also more likely to quit.
Of course, some of the factors contributing to burnout may be outside your control, even if you’re in a leadership role.
However, there are ways you can take charge of your wellbeing and begin to make progress in a better direction.
Not only will this benefit you, it will also help your team members prioritise their wellbeing.
That’s because whether or not you recognise this, your employees look to you as a role model and an example.
So by focusing on your own wellbeing in 2022, you’ll also be helping to chart a better course for your people.
Here are five resolutions that every business leader should make for 2022, along with tips to make it easier for them to achieve these goals.
Set SMART wellbeing goals
It goes without saying that you can’t improve what you don’t measure.
While most leaders are adept at creating Smart, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-based (SMART) business goals, it’s helpful to use this same principle for your wellbeing.
Create a wellness routine
Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, it’s important to put routines in place that support your wellbeing and help you decompress.
Seek out support
If you’re like many business leaders, you may be struggling with isolation, stress, or anxiety.
It’s easy to feel like you have to shoulder this burden by yourself, but you don’t have to go it alone.
Find a peer support group, preferably one that is related to your industry or geography.
Use your calendar to your advantage
Most business leaders would agree that they ‘live and die’ by their calendars.
However, too often they’re using their calendar for work only, when it can also be a critical piece of your wellbeing puzzle.
Set boundaries for yourself
Leaders can feel compelled to do whatever is needed to manage their employees, including being available at all times of the day.
As difficult as it may be, you need to lead by example and set boundaries for yourself.
*Dan Schawbel is a bestselling author and Managing Partner of Workplace Intelligence, a research and advisory firm helping HR adapt to trends, drive performance and prepare for the future.
This article is an extract from Dan’s Workplace Intelligence Weekly series.
