Read on for 4 tips to ignite your spark again.
Cynthia never thought this would happen to her. As we connected over zoom for a coffee, she let out a long sigh. She went on to tell me how she had gone into healthcare because she cared so much - she was passionate about what she did and she truly loved it. She never expected that the day would come where she was tired and burnout and couldn't do this any longer. She longed for that feeling of being on fire again - of jumping out of bed in the morning excited about what lies ahead. The trouble was, she had no idea what would light her up anymore.
It can be hard to know where to start and how to find that fire again. So with Cynthia in mind, here are 4 tips to begin to uncover that spark and find your fire again.
Prioritize self care - create a morning routine that nurtures yourself - take time to journal, meditate and exercise. Be sure to include some kind of movement or exercise. This is especially important to change your energy and give you more. Find something you enjoy - maybe it is zumba, or yoga on line or a walk with the dog. Doing it outside is even better.
Nurture your inner GPS - everyone has an internal guidance system and we can get so busy it is as if the volume is turned down and we can't hear it. So to better tune into your GPS create some quiet time - turn off the phone and the TV. Spend time in nature and let your mind wander.
Be curious -begin to ask yourself curious questions that are expansive in nature. For example: What am I most inspired to do today that will take me closer to my life's purpose? Who do I know that has a life that inspires me? What are the gifts my friends and colleagues come to me for and how might I use them to have a greater impact in the world? Avoid the temptation to judge the answers that come to you.
Focus on the positive - notice what went well each day. Where did you find some joy? What are you grateful for? What positive impact or contribution did you make for others? Write them down every evening before bed and then review them weekly – what trends did you notice? What things kept coming up again and again?
If you would welcome some additional support in making a shift in your life, then you might enjoy this complementary resource "Banish Your Fear: 5 Tools for Healthcare Leaders to ride out the turbulence and take back your Life." at www.LauraMacdougall.com/fear
Laura Macdougall is a leading authority for senior women leaders in the non-profit and healthcare sectors who are designing their next chapters in life, work and legacy.