Five Things You Can Do to Raise Your Energy as a Leader in Healthcare
Having high energy as a leader is more effective — and more fun!
Leading a team in healthcare is no walk in the park. It's more like a sprint through an obstacle course while juggling flaming torches and dodging rogue IV poles. The constant demands from patients, staff, and providers can leave you feeling like you're running on fumes by the end of the week.
But here's the thing: as a leader, your energy is contagious. If you're feeling drained and demotivated, it will show in your team's performance and morale. On the other hand, if you radiate positivity and enthusiasm, it will inspire your team to reach new heights.
So how do you keep your energy levels high in the face of constant challenges? It's not about chugging energy drinks or relying on caffeine fixes. It's about cultivating sustainable self-care habits that nourish your mind, body, and spirit.
Here are five core habits to help you show up as your best self, every day:
1. Prioritize Sleep
Sleep is the foundation of physical and mental well-being. When you're well-rested, you're better equipped to handle stress, make sound decisions, and maintain a positive outlook. But in the hectic world of healthcare, sleep often gets pushed to the back burner.
Recharge Your Batteries:
Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Wind down an hour before bed with calming activities like reading, stretching, or listening to soothing music.
Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet, and cool. Experts recommend your room be around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Invest in blackout curtains, earplugs, or a white noise machine if needed.
Ditch the Devices: The blue light emitted from smartphones and tablets can interfere with sleep. Avoid screens for at least an hour before bedtime.
Lighten Up: An hour before bedtime, turn off bright ceiling/overhead lights and turn on softer/dimmer lamps. Experts say this mimics the normal cycle of light and cues your body that sleep is coming.
2. Fuel Your Body with the Right Foods
You wouldn't put low-grade fuel in a high-performance race car, would you? The same goes for your body. The food you consume directly impacts your energy levels, mood, and overall well-being.
Nourish Your Engine:
Minimize Sugar and Processed Foods: These can lead to energy crashes and mood swings. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
Hydrate: Dehydration can cause fatigue and brain fog. Make sure you're drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Limit Alcohol: While a glass of wine might seem relaxing, alcohol can disrupt sleep and drain your energy levels.
3. Cultivate Gratitude
Gratitude is like a superpower. It shifts your focus from what's lacking to what's abundant in your life, boosting your mood and increasing your resilience in the face of challenges. (Read my blog posts about gratitude here.)
Shift Your Perspective:
Keep a Gratitude Journal: Take a few minutes each day to write down things you're grateful for.
Express Appreciation: Make it a habit to thank your team members, colleagues, and loved ones for their support and contributions.
Focus on the Positive: When faced with challenges, look for the silver linings and opportunities for growth.
4. Engage in Activities You Love
Just like a car needs regular maintenance to run smoothly, you need to invest time in activities that recharge your batteries and bring you joy. Whether it's hitting the gym, taking a nature walk, or pursuing a creative hobby, make time for activities that nourish your soul.
Find Your Flow:
Schedule "Me Time": Block out time in your calendar for activities you enjoy, just as you would for an important meeting.
Move Your Body: Exercise is a powerful energy booster. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it's dancing, swimming, or hiking.
Connect with Nature: Spending time outdoors can reduce stress and improve your mood.
5. Visualize Your Ideal Self
Visualization is a powerful tool for achieving your goals. By creating a mental picture of yourself as an energetic, positive, and effective leader, you can increase your confidence and motivation.
Harness the Power of Your Mind:
Create a Vivid Image: Close your eyes and imagine yourself leading your team with confidence, enthusiasm, and a positive attitude.
Focus on Your Strengths: Visualize yourself utilizing your strengths and overcoming challenges with ease.
Repeat Regularly: Make visualization a regular part of your routine, whether it's first thing in the morning or before an important meeting.
Conclusion
By incorporating these habits into your daily life, you can cultivate a sustainable source of energy that will help you thrive as a leader in healthcare. Remember, taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's an essential investment in your well-being and the success of your team.
