Sometimes events occur that bring life and it's challenges into perspective. Two weeks ago I was prepared to cancel a much-needed vacation to visit a client instead. The day before I planned to cancel I had a minor "cardiac event" and had to spend some time at our local hospital. I was telling the cardiologist about my plan to cancel the vacation and she warned me not to do that - the vacation was much more important than the client visit.
I've given a lot of thought to my "event" over the past two weeks and it struck me that most leaders do not take care of their own needs, especially their health needs. I looked at it this way, if I were to die or become incapacitated, my clients would go on (yes, they would miss my sage advice!). But, my children would not have a father to share their special events with or to give them guidance and advice as they struggled with their own challenges. My wife would not have her companion and best friend to enjoy life with. My friends would also have a big hole in their life as well. And, who would pay the bills!
Seriously, leaders need to take the time (and it is all about time!) to take care of their health, their family, and their own mental and spiritual needs. Leaders who are well rested, centered, and enjoying life are much more effective than overworked and stressed leaders. There is a lot of validity to the statement, "stop and smell the roses." Whatever your rose is, stop and smell it - you will be renewed.
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