Several years ago, I was diagnosed with cancer. It was difficult journey, but praise God, I am cancer free.
During my recovery, I realized I needed to make some changes to my life style.
You see during my military career, I was required to maintain a level of physical fitness. Twice a year I was required to take a physical fitness test, which consisted of push ups, sit ups, and a two-mile run. In addition, I had to meet a weight standard.
Once I retired and began my second career, working out every day fell by the way side. As I moved up the leadership ladder, the demands on my time increased. On average, I was working 10 to 12 hours a day. Between work and family, I had no time for anything else. As a result, my health took a back seat to the other demands in my life.
[callout]To achieve success, life balance is very important.[/callout]
How do you align your personal values with your responsibilities as a leader? According to Myrko Thum “first you get clarity and build your self-awareness by identifying your values and secondly knowing your highest values can act like a guide for you” (2013).
Do you have clarity on what is important to you? Do your actions align with your personal values? While it was easy for me to identify my personal values, my actions were not aligned! So, what is important to me? Faith, family and health were my top three, however there was a disconnect between my actions and values.
Before I went back to work, I joined a gym and arranged to work with a personal trainer. My husband and I went shopping to make sure I was ready for my sessions. I purchased new shoes, a workout bag, and matching workout outfits.
Now, I know what you are thinking “great plan Kim.” Yes, it was a great plan and I looked good when I stepped into the gym. I wish I could tell the plan worked, but over time I fell back into my normal routine. As I drifted away from personal values my frustration level increased. Why? Because my personal values were not aligned with my actions.
You will never feel truly satisfied by work until you are satisfied by life” – Heather Schuck
How do you ensure your personal values fit with your responsibilities? Make them a part of your life by scheduling time on your calendar and protecting the time. Over time you will develop a routine which will help minimize distractions. Track and record your progress to maintain your motivation.
So, am I back on track? Not quite but I am making progress. Life balance is a struggle for every leader.
[shareable cite=”Dr. Kim Moore”]Leaders who align their personal values with their career goals, achieve real success in life and career.”[/shareable]
How do faith, family and health fit with your responsibilities?
Your friend,
Kim
Dr. Kim Moore, guiding YOU to lead with confidence!
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