How is Executive Coaching like the airline oxygen mask briefing? Think about it. Every time I have flown, the instructions are always the same. They tell me that if I am flying with someone who may need my help, I should first place my mask on myself and then help those who are with me. There is a reason for that sequence. If I want to be able to help those with me, I must first ensure that I am able to function under duress. If I faint or grow weary, how can I help those traveling with me? Does not that sound like leadership?
As organizational leaders, we must ensure we are constantly taking care of ourselves so that we can better serve those who are working with and for us. If we grow weary and faint, become disoriented to our purpose and mission, how will we effectively lead those that are traveling with us?
A recent CNN article stated that about 90% of CEOs struggle with life/work balance. If that is the case with CEOs – how effectively are they leading the organization? How does that ‘trickle down’ into the organization? It has been estimated that up to 80% of physician visits in the US are stress related and that workplace stress costs more than $300 billion each year in health care, missed work, and stress-reduction.
It has been demonstrated that executive coaching can help increase productivity, reduce stress, align daily activities with organizational goals, and help with life/work balance.
So, in case of sudden increase in workplace pressure, leaders, first apply your executive coaching “mask” so that you will be better able assist those traveling with you!
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Great analogy John about taking care of yourself first. You are unable to assist others if you are not at the top of game. This is a valuable point to remember for life in general.
Val
Hi Dr. John, what a great point you make about leaders being able to take care of themselves. We must be able to “practice what we preach” and lead others by example. I am learning so much about what leadership really means and you make a great point!
I love the analogy! It is so true though. I love that you state that 90% of CEO’s struggle with work/life balance. It is so great that you have services that can help them to be more productive and less stressed out. I have never been a CEO (or wanted to because I am not willing to sacrifice that much time with my family), but I do know how hard it can be to work for a company where the top dogs don’t do a good job of running the company.
Great post John!
That analogy is great! We all want to help others as much as possible – but that isn’t going to happen if we don’t take care of ourselves first! I love it:)
I can’t tell you how many times I have heard the phrase, “I don’t
get paid enough to handle that!”, in reference to the pressures of
upper management. It is critical to address our emotional well being
in all areas of our lives and especially when these days it seems
especially important to continue to provide “value” to your organization.
I think you are providing a needed service for certain!
Robin,
Yes, I had that discussion today with a team member of one of my clients. I told him when the ship is taking on water, everyone grabs a bucket and bails – regardless if it is in their job description or not.
Thank you for your kind words.
Blessings,
John
Dr. John, great analogy. More of this kind of posting needs to be done especially for those who are trying to make up their minds about “freedom.”
Hi John,
This is so true and you see it all the time. Executives killing themselves with work and not having any life balance. Obviously, this then flows over into their family life. Leaders need to nurture themselves first and set an example. Great post!
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Great Analogy Dr. John, We all want to take care of each other, but we must help ourselves also. DR
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