There is a French concept called “Noblesse Oblige.”  It basically means with privilege comes duty.  In many ways, the opportunity to lead is a privilege. Among the many responsibilities that come with the privilege of leadership is “mood management.”

In his book, Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman cites that approximately 50-70% of how employees perceive their organization’s climate is attributable to the actions and behaviors of their leader.  Admittedly, these are facts that we all know to be true. However, my question to you is this,  “To what extent have you connected this fact to your Self-Care?”   While you may not be able to control all the “crazy” that comes your way during the course of the day, you do have a responsibility to manage the stress it creates.

Although self-care starts with you, it has implications for everyone that experiences you. People must be able to trust that they are getting you at your best. When you are at your best you are cultivating and maintaining great relationships, effectively solving problems, and making clear decisions.  You are communicating expectations clearly, listening actively, and willing to see the perspectives of others. When you are at your best you are optimistic about even the most challenging situations.

You have a responsibility to yourself first, then your team, and the organization to do what’s necessary to “show up” at your very best.  Expand your view of social responsibility to include the cultivation of trust through the practice and role modeling of self-care.