Feeling Stressed? Leaders Relax and Disconnect

feeling stressed

by Dr. Nancy Richmond

We know less stressed leaders are more productive leaders but how do we make change a reality? Most leaders are strapped for time trying to prioritize their work, family/relationships and health. Leaders have lots to think about, lots to do and lots of decisions to make leaving them feeling overwhelmed and stressed out. Great leaders understand the importance of taking time to relax and disconnecting from technology.

Change of Environment
Change of Environment

A change of environment can make you feel instantly more relaxed. Get a massage, have a spa day, take a vacation and do something relaxing out of your normal routine.

For example, many leaders spend too much time looking down at their phones and computers which can lead to neck and back pain. A therapeutic massage or spa day may be just what you need to feel better, think clearer and be more productive.

Research shows that massage therapy can reduce anxiety, headaches, digestive disorders, injuries and joint pain while boosting our immune systems and brain productivity.

Recently, I took time off from work for an amazing spa journey at the Acqualina Resort & Spa which included a healing massage with Himalayan salt stones and aromatherapy oils. Goodbye stress and hello relaxation. Everything in life suddenly became more clear. Life is fast-paced and stressful. We often forget that leaders need to stop their mind and relax in order to solve problems and think of better solutions.

Unplug from Technology and Social Media

Unplug from Technology and Social Media

How long can you go without being on your phone? Make unplugging from technology and social media a reality in your life. Multiple studies have shown that over-involvement with our digital devices can create or exacerbate problems with sleep, mental health issues, remembering information and completing mental tasks.

I am a social media professor and consultant that loves technology but I understand the importance of disconnecting. I turn off my phone to recharge from 2 to 12 hours each week depending on what is going on in my life at the time.  What would happen if you didn’t have your phone for a few hours or even a day? Would the world come to an end? Our brains need time to recharge and heal from information overload. If we spend too much time staring at a screen the life that is happening right in front of us can pass us by. Be in the moment without technology to truly be with nature, your family activities, conversations with your partners and fully embracing relaxing activities. Turn off social media and the news for a few hours each week. Make disconnecting from technology a priority in your life.

Why Relaxing Makes You A Better Leader?

Leading is hard work and to do it well requires that you are alert, present, and thinking clearly. Relaxation and changing environments helps your body, mind and soul so you have the stamina and energy needed to be an awesome leader.