No One Is Coming To Save You

Dear Leaders and Dreamers,

It’s 5am as I enter the gym this morning and on the walls a not so subtle value I’ve learnt to embrace with my personal trainer…

It made me reflect on how leadership at times can feel like a workout. At first glance, it’s all about strength, power, and pushing through the pain. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find it’s just as much about endurance, mental resilience, and a heck of a lot of sweat.

The Heavy Lifting:

Imagine the constant heavy lifting that comes with leadership. Each decision, each responsibility, is a tiny piece of your soul you’ve decided to lift and carry. Like the time you reorganised your entire closet (me this weekend), every item pulled out and judged—exhausting, right? But with each lift, you grow stronger and more capable. Leadership demands this continuous lifting, not just of objects but of people, dreams, and expectations.

Endurance Training:

Leadership isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. It requires stamina and the ability to keep going, even when the finish line seems miles away. Just as a runner builds endurance through consistent training, leaders build resilience through experience and perseverance. The long hours, the never-ending challenges, and the constant demand for your best—these are the miles you run every day. And like any good marathoner, you learn to pace yourself, knowing that success is about sustained effort over time.

Recovery & Self Care:

Now, think about the art of making the perfect cup of tea. The water has to be just right, the steeping time precise, and the sipping, slow and deliberate. Leadership requires this kind of careful self-care. Without it, you risk burnout, much like a pot of tea left to boil over. Take time for yourself—read a book, go for a walk, lie on the floor and stare at the ceiling. These moments of recovery are essential, allowing you to recharge and return to your role with renewed energy.

Building a Strong Team:

Just as a good workout routine often involves a coach or workout buddies, strong leadership involves building a team. Surrounding yourself with people who challenge you, support you, and push you to be better is crucial. A strong team is like a fitness community—it motivates you, holds you accountable, and celebrates your successes. Leadership isn’t just about personal strength; it’s about lifting others up and achieving greatness together.

With gentle determination,

Nadia

Take Away: Leadership is not a race to the top. It’s a commitment to consistant improvements both professionally and personally. Choose your sacfrices wisely, and remember - “no one is coming to save you”.