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Resilient Leadership Starts with Self-Care
As leaders, we’re often bombarded with strategies to hit milestones, grow our teams, and exceed expectations. But leadership rooted in resilience starts with this truth: You can’t lead others effectively if you’re running on empty.
I learned this lesson the hard way. In 2018, my life was at a crossroads. Years of prioritizing work over well-being had left me burned out, carrying the weight of stress—literally and figuratively. At 287 pounds and battling health issues, I knew I couldn’t keep living like this. My health was slipping away, but more importantly, I was losing myself.
I vividly remember standing in front of the mirror one morning, exhausted, defeated, and barely recognizing the woman looking back. That was my breaking point. I realized I wasn’t just sacrificing my health—I was sacrificing the future I wanted with my family, career, and purpose.
When I hit that breaking point, I made a radical choice: I was no longer willing to sacrifice myself for success.
Why Self-Care is the Foundation of Resilient Leadership
Leaders are known for talking about efficiency, goals, and performance. But how often do we talk about taking care of ourselves? How frequently do we model it?
I’d mastered driving results and climbing the ladder in the corporate world. But I was missing the foundation that sustains all of it: my health and well-being. I decided to prioritize myself—not just for my family but for the example I could set for others.
That decision meant rethinking my habits entirely. It wasn’t about a crash diet or chasing quick fixes. I committed to the long game of transformation: eating intentionally, moving my body regularly, and embracing systems aligned with my values. Over time, I shed more than 100 pounds—and with it, the exhaustion, self-doubt, and burnout that had weighed me down.
One of the most profound moments of my journey wasn’t seeing the scale drop but being able to run and play with my children. Their laughter reminded me that these changes weren’t just about my health and being present and thriving for the people I love.
This wasn’t just a personal win; it was a leadership lesson.
How Prioritizing Wellness Builds Thriving Leadership Cultures
Leadership doesn’t stop at metrics or meetings—it’s about shaping a culture where people feel supported to live and work well. When leaders prioritize their health, they permit others to do the same.
I was transparent with my team about blocking my calendar for doctor’s appointments or yoga classes. This openness transformed our culture—engagement improved, stress levels dropped, and the team began working smarter, not harder. By modeling these priorities, I showed that well-being wasn’t just acceptable—it was encouraged.
When I coach executives today, I challenge them to treat their health like they treat a quarterly review. Just as you track key metrics, block time for strategy, and adapt to change, you can do the same for your well-being. This isn’t indulgence—it’s leadership. If you’re ready to implement these principles but need support, book a consultation call to explore our coaching programs to build resilient leadership.
Breaking the Burnout Cycle: Leadership Lessons on Self-Care
For years, I believed success required sacrifice. Sleep less, work more, and figure it out later. But I realized the version of myself running on fumes wasn’t the leader, mom, or woman I wanted to be. Breaking that cycle meant rewriting the narrative—and it starts with radical self-care.
Here’s what I recommend to leaders ready to flip the script:
Schedule health checkups like meetings. Regular screenings saved my life.
Reclaim boundaries. Unplug after hours or say no to draining obligations.
Build systems, not willpower. Meal prepping and blocking time for movement create consistency and ease.
Ask your team this question: “What would you change about our work culture if you were the leader?”
This simple exercise uncovers simmering issues and encourages open dialogue about creating a healthier, more sustainable workplace. According to Harvard Business Review, leaders who prioritize wellness see improvements in productivity and team morale.
Living Your Values as a Strong, Healthy Leader
Today, I feel more energized, capable, and aligned. Not because I hit a magic weight or found a secret formula, but because I chose me. That choice transformed my health, my leadership, and my impact.
Leaders, your most impactful decision this year won’t happen in the boardroom. It’ll happen when you prioritize yourself—mind, body, and spirit. When you lead from a place of strength, you inspire others to do the same.
Leaders, your most impactful decision this year won’t happen in the boardroom. It’ll happen when you prioritize yourself—mind, body, and spirit.
This is it if you’ve been waiting for permission to reclaim your well-being. You have the power to lead boldly, love deeply, and live fully—and it starts with the decision to take care of yourself.
It’s time to make 2025 the year we stop sacrificing and start thriving—because strong, healthy leaders create strong, thriving teams. Start Your Leadership Transformation Today!
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