Leadership Can Be Lonely

We had two big bounce back wins yesterday. While I am proud of the way our team responded, I still had a restless night of sleep.  Here’s what was on my mind:

• Sadness for the players who didn’t travel.
• Disappointment for letting my ego get the best of me (from the disappointing losses).
• Guilt for being gone all weekend. 
• Second guessing myself for various reasons. 

I could go on and on, but I believe you get the point. 

Leadership can be lonely.  To help myself cope, I used a simple strategy that you may find useful.  I began talking to myself as if I were giving advice to a friend. 

• “Michael, you are doing the best you can.”
• “Michael, if you did something wrong, go apologize.”
• “Michael, I know where your heart is.  We all make mistakes.”
• “Michael, come here.  Let me give you a hug.” 

Have you noticed that we speak to ourselves completely different than we speak to our close friends?  We would never shame someone we love for a mistake; however, we quickly ridicule ourselves. 

This week, practice self-care.  Do something you love to do even if your schedule won’t allow it. When you make a mistake (which you will) give yourself a break- you’re human and being a human is messy. 

Please do me two favors:

1. Give yourself the same grace you give to others.
2. Check in on someone who is in a leadership position.  Chances are they need your support. 

Take care of yourself.

Mike