2.5 Years since covid
First, I want to apologize for having taken such a long break from writing new articles. If a few years ago you had predicted what 2020-2022 would be like, I would have never believed you. But the truth is, 2021 has been the hardest year of my life and I’ve had to handle so many challenges that brought me to my knees that my blog was no longer on my list of priorities. I used all my energy to honor the commitments I had made to my clients, doing executive coaching, group coaching, training, and giving talks on zoom and some in person. And once that was completed, I felt I had nothing left to give. Can you relate?
When life got exceptionally challenging, I fell into the trap that I usually pull clients out of, and it’s the trap of having so many problems to solve, that I didn’t have the energy or inspiration to do creative work beyond what was already on my calendar. You won’t blame me as I am sure many of you are familiar with that feeling. Now I am happy to say I am back, stronger than ever! If you are struggling, it’s time to pull yourself out of that sense of powerlessness and focus on what you want to accomplish. Here is how.
Keeping Your Head Above Water
What higher ed. leaders have gone through these last couple of years used to be unthinkable. Never before have you had to deal with so much uncertainty, urgency, constant changes in operations and policies, turnover, leadership changes, and employee issues, on top of high stress and anxiety. You see, such circumstances will naturally throw us into “survival mode” but it’s not sustainable. Trying to keep your head above water can only last so long until you start drowning. Leaders who have been struggling for over 2.5 years and haven’t had a chance to step back, reflect, take a vacation, and unplug, may have developed learned helplessness. It’s time to take your personal power back!
Setting More Inspirational Goals
When leaders are exhausted, the last thing they want to hear me say is to set more ambitious goals. I get it. Sometimes we simply can’t. But… other times we absolutely can, and the only obstacle is our mindset. If your goal is to make it through each day, you will not be able to feel energized. It will be very difficult to pull yourself out of that funk. How can you get excited about survival? You can’t. And that’s exactly why you need to create a compelling vision for your life and your future. Finding purpose and meaning will give you energy and bring you fulfillment.
What do you want to see happen in the next few months? What do you want to lead, create, or transform? Think about the positive impact you can have on your institution, students, and employees. It’s time to get excited about doing something meaningful that will give you the energy to start each day with enthusiasm. You were not meant to spent 10+ hours on zoom trying to keep things from crumbling. Your heart knows better. You have talents you’re not using and a part of you is suffering because it’s being repressed.
Many Leaders are Thriving
Not everyone is feeling beat up. Some higher ed. leaders are thriving because the challenge awakened their strength and resilience. They set ambitious goals and wake up each day with a sense of purpose. Others felt a need to leave their jobs and do something completely different. Many people chose to move to a new location. These people have made choices that were risky, uncomfortable, and challenging, but today, they seem to be much happier and healthier than those who have been trying to survive for two years. Feeling stagnant creates helplessness and even sometimes apathy. Please remember that life is meant to be an adventure. Let yourself reflect on what you really want and go for it! Keep in mind that I am here for you if you are ready to change and live the life you really want.
My intention through this blog is to inspire you to step back, reflect, journal, go in nature, do whatever you need to do, but do something to be able to clear your head, and connect with your heart and intuition. If you’re feeling exhausted and discouraged, don’t accept it. There is a way out. In fact, there are countless ways out. But for things to change, you have to change old habits and embrace a new perspective on your situation.
If you agree that enough is enough, and you want to feel enthusiasm and excitement again, I invite you to click here to schedule a time to speak with me about how we can work together to reignite passion for your career and thrive.
About the author: Dr. Audrey Reille has empowered thousands of professionals through one-on-one coaching, group coaching, speaking engagements, and online courses. Audrey is the go-to executive coach for leaders in higher education administration. She empowers them to thrive by improving communication, reducing stress, optimizing strategies, improving professional relationships, and developing a strong and empowered mindset.