Consciously Mastering Priorities: The Key to Effective Leadership
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of leadership? Of course, you have, as all leaders experience these challenges in their professional lives. Fortunately, we have some control over how we manage our priorities, and thankfully, we have TOTAL control over how we respond to the pressures of leadership.
Can we truly and consciously master our priorities?
While it may seem impossible to control everything on our plate, we can indeed master our approach to priorities. The demands of leadership can fluctuate rapidly or feel constant. Every day, we face a list of strategic goals to accomplish alongside personal tasks and commitments. This article aims to help you, as a leader, effectively identify and manage your priorities while reducing feelings of stress and anxiety amidst competing demands. Whether you're a senior executive, manager, entrepreneur, or emerging leader, we all grapple with competing priorities and seemingly endless to-do lists.
So how do effective leaders get it all done?
As a leader, I believe in giving my all to both work and life outside of work. The challenge is balancing these aspects without falling into an all-or-nothing mindset. There have been times when I've become so engrossed in work that I've neglected other important areas of my life. Conversely, when I'm engaged in personal activities or extended time away, I'm completely disconnected from work. While this can be refreshing, it can also lead to neglecting important responsibilities and commitments.
Expectations minus reality creates leadership stress
A wise colleague once shared, "expectations minus reality equals stress." It's normal to expect that we should be able to do it all – meet all our work commitments, arrive early, manage our teams effectively, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and continually develop ourselves as leaders. However, these expectations often set us up for failure and stress, ultimately making us less productive and emotionally drained leaders.
3 Steps to Consciously Master Priorities in Leadership
Step 1: Align With Your Commitment
Know what you're committing to and take the time to choose consciously. Which priorities align with which of my values. Ask yourself, “By working on X task right now, what need would I be meeting?” Select the task or priority you're going to focus on right now. When you choose and commit to what you're doing based on your own values, the stress of your entire to-do list starts to correct itself. Whether you're choosing strategic planning, team development, personal development, or peace, be fully present. Recognize that you're making a conscious choice, not compromising your values, but being present to what you've decided is most important to you at this moment.
Step 2: Budget Your Leadership Time
Allocate your time strategically to allow full focus on your chosen priority while setting aside time for other important tasks. For instance, when tackling a major organisational initiative, budget 2 hours a day over the next 5 days. This approach gives you the freedom to address other leadership responsibilities after your allotted time, knowing you've planned for continued progress on the larger project. It also provides the satisfaction of making daily strides in an otherwise daunting task. Use tools like time-tracking apps to help you stay focused and avoid jumping between tasks.
Step 3: Release The Guilt
Let go of guilt or shame about what you "should" be doing instead of your current focus. Choose powerfully then quiet the overthinking mind. If you've committed to an activity, it means you've consciously chosen it as a priority. Be fully present and let go of the guilt. Take a mindful moment to recognize that guilt doesn't serve your leadership effectiveness. Instead, be present with your current priority, knowing you'll bring the same focus and intention to your next task when the time comes.
I've developed a mantra that I believe applies: "When we lead ourselves well, we become a leader to others."
Try embracing this approach to conscious priorities with the help of this free worksheet!
Live in the moment, accomplish what needs to be done, and share your experiences with others. Let us know how it goes - reach out on our social media or contact us directly. I'd love to hear your story about applying these steps in your leadership journey and any challenges you face. We’re always happy to offer a free coaching call to help you think through some tools that can enhance your leadership effectiveness and bring more fulfilment to your professional and personal life.
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