Can high-achievers have it all?
YES! If only they stop doing it all!
I was running out of ideas to help my 5-year-old son tidy his room. One day, as we discussed how painful it is to step on a lego piece accidentally, he shrugged his shoulders and said, “ I think I need Marie Aunty to help me.”
I stood there confused momentarily, wondering who this Marie Aunty was. So I asked him.“ The one on TV. She teaches people how to clean their rooms, and then everyone smiles!” he said with a super adorable serious face.
He was referring to Marie Kondo. A few weeks ago, one of my attempts to get him to clean up was to watch her Netflix show with him. That’s where he got the idea!
At first, I was frustrated that he was trying to escape from his chore, but then I started thinking how brilliant this was. Hypothetically speaking, if he could get professional help to learn effective organization, he could spend more time playing and creating.
Most adults shy away from asking for help and think they can do it all, especially the high-performing type A personalities. They have the confidence to do anything they put their minds to, and many find it difficult to delegate, as no one else can do it as well or as fast as them.
When coaching new clients, I recommend actions that will change their prosperity. But sometimes, they hesitate. They say they have no time! They don’t know where to fit transformation into a life that is so busy.
I used to be that person, so I know the thrill of learning something new and the satisfaction of completing an almost impossible task can be intoxicating. But as you grow as a leader, managing your time and energy affects your whole team’s performance and your contribution to your organization.
As an inspirational leader, who you are being as you do is much more important than what you do.
So slow down and be more strategic about spending your time and energy. Slowing down and being more intentional gives you more mental space to be creative.
Take the time to get to know the talented people around you, personally and professionally, so you can build enough trust to share suitable projects without anyone burning out, including you!
Love,
Nisha
