So, let's talk today about not only having a life but being the leader in every way possible. Here's the deal - when you consistently send people emails at 10 pm, casually mention you were working at 2 am because you couldn't sleep, and make work your life, you are not helping anyone. You are sending an unspoken message that work is not only part of your life, it IS your life and therefore it should be everyone else's life too. Even if you don't say it, you are the leader, and people expect to follow you. You are setting the standard.
If you aren't spending time with family, socializing with friends, or watching a sunset on a routine basis, you are not leading effectively. As human beings we need the opportunity to be human . . . outside of work. And if you aren't taking care of yourself and your needs, you will not have the energy or enthusiasm to lead.
Sure there are the occasional "crunch deadlines" where you have to put in a great deal of extra time (and may even require it from several employees). However, if this is the rule rather than the exception, there is something wrong. Either you aren't delegating enough, you have a difficult time letting go of control, or your employer is making unrealistic demands. Regardless of the issue, if this goes on for a prolonged period, it's time for you to have a crucial conversation, for yourself as well as your team.
It's just as important that you find time to laugh and enjoy life as it is that you work hard. Without one, it's difficult to do the other for a prolonged amount of time. When you think about work/life balance, think about the standard you are setting for your team.
Some of us may have a problem truly identifying the cause of whey we have a bad work/life balance. You said "if you aren't delegating enough, you have a difficult time letting go of control, or your employer is making unrealistic demands" these could be some of the reasons. How do we take an honest look at ourselves to know the root cause?? :)
ReplyDeleteGreat question! The good news is you are already on your way to identifying root cause simply because you see the need to do so.
ReplyDeleteIn my blog post I listed a few of the reasons why someone may not have good work/life balance. The actual complete list would be much longer. As is often the case with root cause analysis, it is often a process of elimination and asking yourself some good questions. I think you have just given me another blog topic to right about! : )