Over the last year, we have seen many challenges. No year is really without them, but how we look at things often makes a giant difference. There is a quote by Tony Robbin’s, “Where focus goes, energy flows. And where energy flows, whatever you’re focusing on, grows.” I hope you will take some time this month to reflect on areas where you could focus and improve. Here are some ideas:
Personal Health
Taking time to care for your physical body improves everything around you. When you feel good, you are able to accomplish more and be a better leader in the world around you. A small shift like increasing your daily step count, intentionally drinking more water every day, or ensuring you get a sufficient amount of sleep can have an intensely positive effect on your overall attitude and ability to get things done.
Emotional/Mental Health
An often-overlooked part of our health is our emotional and mental health. I am not saying you need therapy, unless you do—then go! What I mean is ensuring you take time to be mindful of all the things around you. Beginning your day by writing a gratitude list of three to five things you appreciate sets your mind toward positivity, which brings more positivity. Being mindful of how you’re feeling is important too. We aren’t all sunshine and rainbows every single day, and being aware when you’re off can help avoid unnecessary stress or disagreements. Other ways to work on improving your emotional or mental health is to have a hobby. I like to create art. Some of my friends like to take walks in nature, some meditate or practice yoga, and others build legos or coach or play in local sports teams. No matter what you choose, something that gives your mind time to focus on something outside of work, politics, news, or other stressful things counts as self-care.
Financial Health
I write often about ways to improve your KPIs, but I haven’t touched much on what to do once your numbers start to improve. I found great value in reading “Profit First” by Mike Micalowicz, where he gives a clear plan to pay yourself, save for taxes, and plan for profit to reinvest in your business. There are many other fantastic financial books out there to learn from, and also some wonderful podcasts that teach small steps that lead you toward financial freedom. Check out Hunt Demarest, CPA, and his podcast “Business By The Numbers.” His advice from the perspective of a dedicated automotive field is incredible and easy to understand. Focusing on your financial health seems boring to some people, but having lost 10 working days this year to hurricane-related closures, I sure am glad I had some savings so I could make sure my staff didn’t suffer immensely with the loss of work.
I know I am not always great at keeping a focus on all of these things all the time, but I am a work in progress and focusing on small improvements in each of these areas has improved my home life and professional life. I have become more productive, and I think am able to make a bigger impact in my community and our industry by taking care of myself. I hope you will too!
