2021 was always going to be a different year.
But I’d like to narrow it down a bit to the psyche and energy of you as a leader.
Normally in this part of the world people would take the summer to step back, reflect and get into the new year with fresh eyes, fresh energy, and clear direction.
For many this cycle hasn’t happened in the usual way.
It seems that instead of holidaying and taking the usual time to read books and think strategically, many just took the opportunity to recover from 9+ months of intense activity. And even longer for those who entered the pandemic on the back of the bushfires. Remember them?
In speaking with a number of senior executives this year I notice that some have lost some of the spring in their step and don’t seem quite ready to launch back in or face the year ahead with the focus and energy required of them.
Post-event fatigue is a well established syndrome. If something feels a bit off, it’s good to make sure that you’ve got the right supports around you. Our part in this is helping with clarity on leading the risk and audit work – stripping things back, focusing things up, and continuing on with momentum, energy, and excitement about the coming year.
Is this February the new January?
2020 was an extraordinary year – not a marathon or sprint, but both.
After a year of high intensity and disruption during the pandemic and everything that surrounds it, leaders went into the Christmas period tired. And without many of the normal levels of supports that normally sustain us all, including the normal travel and face to face interactions.
One of my clients described January 2021 as like the Tuesday of football season.
The Tuesday is the part of the week that’s after the intensity of the game, and after recovery but too early in the week to really get into game mode.
It’s a lull. The doldrums. A bit where the adrenaline isn’t kicking in and where focus and discipline is required to commit to the week ahead.
Getting ready for game day requires focus and intent.
Coffee solves (nearly) everything
If you’re wondering about whether you are ready to go into the new year with focus and energy, or if you’re looking wistfully at greener pastures, it might be time for a reset.
And if you lead a team and if some of what I’m saying resonates with you then it’s time to take action.
During times of stress and fatigue, the human condition is to narrow options which reduces possibility. This is normal. But it’s also unsustainable.
Conversely, broadening perspectives and reframing opens options. And options with agency to act on them is a proven good recipe for personal resilience and wellbeing, giving the energy to lead and to energise others.
And even better, it’s contagious.
A confidential chat over coffee can do wonders and open up a range of options that will leave you feeling clearer, more focused and more energised.
If you’re wondering about whether you are ready to go into the new year with focus and energy, or if you’re looking wistfully at greener pastures, it’s time for a reset.
And if you lead a team and if this resonates with you then it’s time to take action.
Do it for organisation, do it for your team and more importantly do it for yourself.
If you know us book a virtual coffee with Todd. And if you don’t, drop me a note to say hi and we’ll take it from there.
Looking forward to finding out what’s possible for you in 2021 and helping you lead with clarity.
While you’re here
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