A few weeks ago I started sharing how to become a great high growth leader. The truth is these successful people have figured out the secret of working smarter, rather than harder. This week I will share with you another tip which drives their success, which is particularly appropriate at this time of the year – make time to replenish yourself!
Researchers have spent thousand of hours studying both willpower and stress. From these studies, two main findings emerge:
- While acute stress can be healthy, chronic unrelenting stress is toxic for your mind and body.
- Willpower is like a muscle and wears down with overuse,
Acute stress lasts for a defined period, followed by physiological recovery. The type of stress is a challenge that can be healthy and provide opportunities for growth and mastery. Examples of acute stress include running a marathon or doing an important business pitch. Chromic stress on the other hand, is often uncontrollable and continues over long periods with no end in sight. Examples of chronic stress are being exposed challenging relationships or ongoing poor business performance. Chronic stress of this type can put a strain on your body especially your heart and immune system.
With respect to willpower, expecting to maintain a high level of performance in many different areas over long periods can wear down your willpower muscle. If the stakes are particularly high or you worry about potential bad outcomes, your subjective stress is increased and demands on willpower increase. Emotionally intelligent people know that they need to learn their stress tolerance. When you are in for the long haul, you need mental and physical breaks to replenish your stores of willpower. You will not make it through unscathed if you don’t take time for exercise, spending time with people you care about, reading a book or doing other things that replenish you. Don’t forget this must also be combined with adequate sleep and good nourishment. Remember you can’t look after others if you don’t first look after yourself!
