2 min readEnhancewell
It seems counterintuitive that the key to becoming a better leader is to stop thinking about work, doesn't it?
In fitness, rest days are essential for hard-worked muscles to repair and grow stronger. If our bodies are created to grow more powerful with rest, why would we assume that our minds are designed to work 24/7?
Today, we'll talk about how you can become a stronger leader by thinking less about work and lay out a few steps you can take to disconnect (and grow your leadership skills) today.
How did we become a culture where work comes first?
An incredible article in Mediumlays out the evolution of work. One hundred years ago, efficiency and productivity were the measures of success with dedication-based industrial work.
If you were in the factory, at your post, you were working.
Now, most careers are knowledge-based. Wherever you are, you can think about work.
And that's not even considering the evolution in technology over the past century. Our ever-present cell phones and laptops make it easy to stay connected— even after work hours or on vacation.
The adverse effects of staying connected all the time
In industrial times, once workers clocked out for the day, their work ended. Sure, they could think about work at home, but they could not physically assemble a car or sort items.
Now, we can work anywhere and anytime. And we're paying the price. Research shows that 89% of workers reported burnout over the past year, with symptoms that include:
- Physical fatigue
- Cognitive weariness
- Emotional exhaustion
- Lack of interest, motivation, or energy
- Lack of effort at work
The term "burnout" wasn't invented until the 1970s by American psychologist Herbert Freudenberger, which should tell you everything you need to know about modern work culture.
How can thinking less about work enhance your leadership skills?
Research published in the Journal of Applied Psychology shows that workers who ruminated on work after hours came to work feeling depleted the next day. Conversely, those who disengaged reported feeling energized and ready to work.
How can you disconnect in a way that strengthens your leadership?
Creating distance from your work— especially in a leadership role— can feel abnormal in a culture that's work-first.
Create an after-work routine
Set a physical routine that reminds you that work is over. That could be removing your key pass lanyard or trading work shoes for comfier ones. Whatever you choose, intentionally shift into after-hours mode.
Be intentional about your non-work time
Engage in a hobby, exercise, or spend time with friends and family during your non-working hours. Occupy your brain with non-work activities and avoid the urge to check your work email.
Set boundaries
Making the shift from 24/7 connection to disconnecting after-hours may be difficult. Determine reasonable boundaries (such as not responding to work emails and texts after hours) and communicate them to your team.
The team at Enhancewell Consulting has more than 25 years of experience consulting businesses and supporting leaders. If you need help making a change, contact us today for a free consultation.
Your career performance and personal relationships will thrive when you think less about work, so what are you waiting for?