Hey Leaders!
Let’s talk about something we don’t say enough: wellness is not optional for leaders. It’s essential.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and if you’re like most high performers I coach, you’re good at pushing through.
You’ve built a career on grit, high standards, and showing up, even when you're running on empty.
But here’s the truth: the leaders who rise (and stay there) aren’t just strategic.
They’re intentional about protecting their energy.
They build clarity into their routines.
They model well-being like their team’s performance depends on it—because it does.
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People don’t follow what you say. They follow how you show up.
So, if you’re rushing from meeting to meeting, skipping breaks, staying online after hours, your team sees that.
And they’re learning from it.
Even when you don’t say a word.
Here’s what I want you to remember and reflect on this month:
You can’t create a culture of wellness if you’re burning yourself out.
That starts with boundaries.
Taking your PTO.
Letting people know when you’re stepping away.
You’re not weak for logging off. You’re modeling sustainability.
Emotional intelligence isn’t about being soft.
It’s about making people feel safe to speak up.
It’s knowing when to hold space, when to check in, and when to say, “Hey, I see you.”
Wellness needs structure.
Recognition policies. Work-life integration that’s real, not just lip service.
Systems that reward presence, not just productivity.
And let me be clear: this has to start at the top.
Culture doesn’t shift with posters and perks.
It shifts when leaders say, “This matters. This is who we are. And it’s not going anywhere.”
You don’t need to overhaul your whole org this week. But you do need to start.
Try this:
Take one intentional break this week—no phone, no inbox. Just space.
Check in with one team member and ask how they’re really doing.
Reflect on what boundary you need to reinforce—for your own clarity, your own energy.
You’re not just leading projects. You’re shaping culture.
And when you model wellness, you’re building a team that performs with trust, longevity, and focus.
Let’s lead like it.
Find Out How You Lead
If you’re leading on fumes, it’s time for a reset. Start by understanding how you naturally lead under pressure.
Best,
Stephanie
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