We've all been there: those seemingly never-ending days that stretch our patience and energy to the limit. My recent experience began with a 5 am start, prepping for an early morning meeting, and culminated in a late-night commitment, assisting my child with a neighborly task. At the close of such a day, when the comfort of relaxation beckons, it's tempting to retreat inward, grumbling about additional demands on our already depleted energy.
This is the crux of the challenge:
Doing our best when we're already at our peak is EASY.
The real test arises when we're weary, and yet, life still asks more of us. It's during these moments that we must harness our self-awareness, rise above our knee-jerk reactions,
and embrace the opportunity to grow.
While it's natural to feel self-centered and begrudgingly go through the motions,
authentic leadership shines when we turn those moments into exemplifications of commitment and integrity. It's not merely about broadcasting our principles with words, but living them through our actions – especially when we're drained.
Embodying our best selves even in exhaustion creates a powerful ripple effect. By pushing through our weariness, we not only inspire those around us but also lay a foundation of resilience and commitment within ourselves. So, the next time you find yourself tired yet facing a challenge, remember: this is your golden opportunity. How many ripples of inspiration can you create in a week?
And you may
even find your second wind.
This article was last modified on August 21, 2023 .
Darren Smith
Darren Smith is Co-Founder of the Authentic Leadership Institute. He is a native Texan and a graduate of Dallas Jesuit and Texas A&M University. Over the past 25 years, Darren has visited 35 countries and led 100 strategy programs. He and his wife have five children.
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