Showing up at work as your best self.
Have you ever been driving to or from work and not really focusing on where you are, or the way you are driving? You reach your destination, but how you got there is a total blur.
It may not always be obvious, but all of us operate this way at work at times- some rarely, some occasionally and others frequently. We go through the motions, but aren’t truly present, critically thinking or digging into the things or people who need our undivided attention. We attend meetings, answer emails and get through the day superficially, but we aren’t showing up as our best selves. As a result, our work and our business suffer.
If you are operating on autopilot more than not, it’s time to examine the following:
Your mindset and intention – This starts before you step foot in the office. Be conscious about your intention for the day. How are you going to show up? What attitude are you bringing into the day? Are you proactive or reactive?
To bring your best self – choose positivity, resilience, being fully present and proactive, and responding thoughtfully.
Your why – why are you doing the work you’re doing? What drives you? Is it the purpose of the company, the ability to create something new, the impact you’re making on your team or the professional development you’re gaining?
To bring your best self- use your why to stay present and power through challenging days. If your why no longer serves you, it may be time to find a new role or opportunity.
Your well-being and self-care – Are you constantly running on empty, tired, stressed, disconnected, having difficulty concentrating or making decisions?
To bring your best self- do what you need to do to recharge – exercise regularly, get enough sleep, eat healthy, mediate or practice mindfulness or gratitude, read, spend time in nature, take vacations…or whatever works for you.
Your professional conduct and growth – Are you setting realistic goals for yourself? Are you maintaining professional behavior? Are you prioritizing genuine connections with colleagues?
To bring your best self – set realistic goals for your day, be consistent, focus on personal growth, consciously communicate from a place of emotional maturity, build authentic relationships, be a team player and remain humble. If you find it difficult to do so in your current role, it may be time to find a new role or opportunity.
Being fully engaged on the job has a positive impact on our work, our team and our organization. No matter what our role is in the company, people will mirror our mindset, energy and resilience….focusing on solutions stead of problems, lessons instead of setbacks and being real instead of trying to look good. When everyone shows up at work as their best selves more than not, there is exponentially greater collaboration, problem-solving, execution and productivity, fueling overall company success, where everyone wins.