I tried to write this newsletter 100 times over the past 2 weeks. At least it felt like that many times.

So much to say, no creative or brain space to say it the way I wanted to say it.

Client work, networking events, prospect calls, website updates, business and household changes, are taking up all the space.

Has your head ever felt full?

This week I facilitated a leadership retreat (on Zoom) for an executive team in upstate NY. To begin each session I started with a “check-in”. A chance for each individual to share “what’s going on for them in that moment”. Because unless you’ve been asleep through 2020 (in which case, consider me jealous), you know there is a ton going on.

• Pandemic pressure
• Family pressure
• Work pressure

And to set the tone for any meeting or gathering – virtual or in person – it’s important to check-in, acknowledge how people might feel given the issues they are facing, and kick things off with open, honest communication. (It’s called creating psychological safety and shows you care. I’ll talk more about this in upcoming posts.)

Thinking you can’t do this is a formality that can hold you back.

You know what I heard from these 8 seasoned, highly ambitious health care leaders?

Words like…

• Pressure
• Emotionally drained
• Wild
• Fear (3x this one came up)
• Energy
• Resilient

I can only assume their heads are full, too. Having the opportunity to gather and talk about it, recharged them.

What’s going on with you?

As we approach Thanksgiving 2020 (Seriously, how did we get here so quickly) and the last month of the year, I invite you to simply check-in with yourself, your clients, your employees, anyone you care about. You don’t need to solve the problem. You create space for them to share what’s on their mind and in their heart.

A simple question like…

What’s one word to explain what’s going on for you right now?

…can make the difference between a listener who is focused and present and one caught up in all the stuff.

Bottom Line

If there is one thing I’ve learned over the years it’s this: we cannot effectively serve others as a business owner or leader if our heads are full and we’re exhausted, fearful or under pressure. 

So, as we approach the holidays and the end of a tumultuous year, take time to check-in with yourself and others.

You might even find that the space in your head clears up and your newsletter gets written on the 101st try.

Be well & Keep Shining