As we embark on a new year, everyone seeks to become a better version of themselves. What small, daily habits can you engage in to increase your leadership abilities? The following are daily habits of some of the most successful people in their industries.
Use a To-Do List
A to-do list is a time-honored system that’s beautiful in its simplicity. You can work out what needs to be done and in what order, write down the tasks, do them, and then, one-by-one, cross them out. Psychologist Dr. David Cohen believes that the struggle to stay organized is helped, but not entirely solved, by to-do lists. Cohen puts our love of to-do lists down to three reasons: they dampen anxiety about the chaos of life; they give us a structure, a plan that we can stick to; and they are proof of what we have achieved that day, week or month. Whether you choose a pen and paper version or an app, using a to-do list is a great daily habit of a leader.
Stay Engaged
A disengaged leader is fertile breeding grounds for disengaged employees. How can you stay engaged throughout the day? If you are feeling yourself check out, take a walk around the office. Drink some ice cold water. As a leader, your employees look to you to model the mood. Stay upbeat and engaged, whatever it takes.
Take Breaks to Re-energize
Studies show that those who give in to some kind of diversion or distraction once an hour perform better than those who keep at it without a break. Our bodies rely on rest and relaxation, even in the middle of the work day! After awhile, our brains numb out a bit to the constant stimulation, and we become unable to continuously treat the task as important. Taking a break allows us to come back to the job at hand with renewed energy and sense of purpose.
Be Courageous
People will wait to see if a leader is courageous before they’re willing to follow his or her lead. Entrepreneur explains that people need courage in their leaders. Employees need someone who can make difficult decisions and watch over the good of the group. People are far more likely to show courage themselves when their leaders do the same. So be a courageous leader. Face the day with courage and your employees will respond positively!
By creating and maintaining key daily habits, you will become a more well-rounded and effective leader in no time.