Love Yourself

If you are in a position of leadership you might agree that it is one of the most complicated, yet fulfilling adventures one might experience. No matter how large or small your influence, the opportunity to motivate, direct, and inspire others is thrilling.

In my experience, the key to finding stability while juggling multiple projects, events and individuals is managing ones priorities.

My relationship with God is the ultimate priority. Scripture is straightforward. In Matthew 6:33 Jesus said ‘Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.’ Check out the wording of the same passage in the Message translation: ‘Steep your life in God-reality, God-initiative, God-provisions. Don’t worry about missing out. You’ll find all your everyday human concerns will be met’. Unless He is first, everything else will seem completely out of balance.

It’s clear that God is to be our numero uno!

Things tend to become pretty dicey when ordering family, work, friends and us. Taking care of yourself is a necessary element in effective leadership. If one doesn’t care for oneself, they are unable to care for others.

Luke 10:27 (MSG) ‘ . . . love the Lord your God with all your passion and prayer and muscle and intelligence – and that you love your neighbor as well as you do yourself.’

It’s a known fact: Everyone is super busy! Extended work hours, long commutes, technology and life commitments are key contributors to lack of balance.

I have found that when my relationship with God is on point and I attend to myself, I am creatively, spiritually, emotionally relationally, intelligently and morally available to others. When I don’t care for myself properly, I begin to drift. My relationship with the Lord suffers, productivity diminishes and I tend to isolate myself from others.

Here are a few essential elements that have helped me along the way:

Peace – This is God’s word for wholeness and satisfaction. Peace is often overlooked, yet it is necessary for our lives. It adds energy, soundness and vitality in every dimension of life.

Rest – Consistent rest is critical to our health and well-being. Lack of sleep causes decreased performance and alertness. Rest affects the way we perceive and respond to people and circumstances. Get some sleep!

Community – We were created to live with and love others. Take some time to connect with family and friends. Eat together, laugh and make memories. You won’t regret it.

Identity – Dealing with the emotional wounds of your past brings healing and allows one to operate from a place of authenticity and wholeness. Don’t be afraid to get counseling. Therapy is a valuable exercise for most people.

Personal growth – Reading good books and blogs along with listening to podcasts provide you with the necessary resource to impact others creatively and intellectually.

When my relationship with God is right and I am taking care of myself – according to the scriptures, I’m able to lead others in an effective manner.

Question: How well are you taking care of yourself? How can you improve, as it relates to self-care?