It might seem impossible to carve out time for breaks when your schedule is packed with meetings, deadlines and responsibilities. However, even small breaks can make a significant difference. Schedule time for yourself in the same way you would schedule a meeting. This could be a 10-minute break between calls to step outside and clear your head, or a weekend completely disconnected from work. This isn't about being less committed but about ensuring you're in the best shape to lead effectively.
Creating time for breaks is necessary and a powerful way to ensure you do so is to lead by example. If your team sees you setting boundaries and respecting your own need for downtime, they will feel more empowered to do the same. This approach not only supports individual well-being but also creates a work environment that values balance and sustainability over burnout. Team members will learn to prioritise work when it’s time for work and take much-deserved breaks when needed. As a result, you’ll build a team that is effective, efficient and focused, leading to fewer mistakes and reducing the need for you to constantly be in "leadership mode" to intervene or resolve conflicts - essentially creating a self-sufficient team that allows you to relax and reduce your worries when you’re away.
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