Good morning, Leaders! It’s Friday!

I stopped into the doctor’s office Wednesday to have a tiny bump/new mole on my hairline (or what used to be a distinct hairline) looked at. I ran into the pharmacist I’ve known for years on the way into the clinic, we talked about the extended Summer, vacation plans and the idea of what it would be like if work days and play days were inverted. I confessed that my last six months have been just that and he asked, “How’s it been?” I patted my belly and said, “I think I’ve gained a little weight.”

The surprise came with my preparatory measurements with the nurse. Scale confirmed what I already suspected…but the blood pressure measurement was the surprise. One hundred over seventy. I smiled and the nurse smiled back. “That’s really good!”, she said. “Must be my low-stress diet”, I countered. She looked a little perplexed as she walked out…”Doctor will be right in.”

With a leadership focus, you might wonder why this “fat”, bald(ing) guy is telling you about his doctor visit.

Leading is a challenge that takes a physical toll. Leading during challenging times brings out the worst habits, especially if good ones haven’t been established. For those who fly, you’ve likely heard (or ignored) the announcement “In case of emergency, an oxygen mask will drop from the overhead compartment…Secure your own mask before helping others.” I’ve heard it called the airplane theory. If you can’t take care of yourself (can’t breathe, can’t stay awake, can’t lift 40 pounds to open the escape hatch, etc…) how on earth are you going to help someone else?

Leadership is more than just stepping in front of a crowd and declaring which way to start walking.
Leadership is about:
*Self-mastery.
*Making good decisions.
*Setting an example WORTH following.

Be prepared. Be healthy. Rest when you can so you can fight when you must.

Have a blessed weekend!