Spring has officially arrived along with tomorrow’s Easter celebrations. The egg is the universal symbol of rebirth, whether that be spiritual, physical, mental or other renewals. Maybe you can join me in taking a moment to stop, breathe and reflect on your lifestyle so that you can take an opportunity to make changes to bring your best form, both physically and mentally, to your executive circle. Here are some spring rituals that might help you get started.
De-clutter your office space.
Take time to get rid of your paper files. Digitize and organize as much as possible so that you don’t worry about the timelines of filing. Rule of thumb: keep meeting notes through the life of a project and financials for seven years. Transfer as many files out to the appropriate departments.
Clear out mental or emotional clutter.
Renewal usually brings the thoughts of rebirth to mind; something old dies and something new is born. Why not use this season of renewal as a reminder to get rid of things weighing you down and sapping your energy?
- Mentally, allow yourself to let go of the past to make room for new things to come into your life.
- Commit to finally make those decisions you’ve been putting off.
- Practice open mindedness and challenge limiting beliefs about yourself and how things should be done.
- Lastly, think positively: when something negative comes up pair it with something positive and stay in that mode.
Start a Habit.
A new discipline will ensure you invite mindfulness into your life. Take “time-outs” from your daily routines to breathe, renew and honor yourself.
- Try a spiritual practice such as meditation, chi or yoga. These exercises are easily found and relatively affordable.
- I am an exercise enthusiast and encourage you to become one as well. Even walking is a great way to help your body while clearing your mind.
- Change your scenery by taking the stairs or taking a different route to work. Little changes can change perspectives.
Begin something brand new.
Focus on spring as new beginnings and resolve to do something new, maybe something you’ve always wanted to do but never felt you had the time.
- Again, I recommend committing to an exercise program or improving the one you currently use. But first, assess your health. Maybe it’s time to start taking better care of yourself. Now is the time to make changes to your lifestyle to help you be at your best. Take inventory of your health including diet, exercise, genetics and stress level. Begin slowly making better changes, eventually incorporating others.
- Maybe something new for you is to explore your creative side. Learn a new language, take piano lessons or go back to school. Fulfill a dream.
- As an executive, you should always find ways to mentor others who want to learn. Spend time on and off the clock helping your community. Find ways to give of yourself and find a greater sense of purpose.
Simplify your life.
Life moves so quickly, find ways to slow down. With all of the constant stimulation from our information streams, we need to find ways to quiet our minds and make quality time for our families and ourselves.
Reorganize your highest priorities by re-evaluating your commitments. What do you value most in life? How much quality time do you spend with the people you care about the most? What is the best way to use your time to create the life you want to have?
I hope you take some time to renew your spirit. Happy Easter to you.