You don’t need to feel guilty about it!
“If you’re traveling with children or someone who needs assistance, secure your own oxygen mask first before helping others.”
That line—often delivered in a monotone voice just before takeoff—suddenly hit me differently on a recent flight. I’ve logged over 100,000 miles this year alone. I’ve heard that safety briefing dozens of times. But this time, the oxygen mask part lingered.
As a father and grandfather, my first instinct would be to help someone else before thinking about myself. But that’s not the instruction. Why?
What’s the Leadership Lesson?
The leadership lesson is this: As leaders, we must occasionally step back and tend to our own well-being. If we’re depleted, we’re in no shape to lead, guide, or support others. Replenishing ourselves is not selfish—it’s strategic leadership.
How Do You Put Your Oxygen Mask On First?
1. Go to bed early tonight
There is nothing quite as rejuvenating as a good night’s sleep. Do yourself a favor. Go to bed early tonight and don’t set an alarm for tomorrow morning.
2. Clear your calendar for 24 hours
Reclaim some time from the hustle and grind. Mark it ‘Private’ on your calendar and use it to be with someone you care about or just to reset your soul.
3. Read a good book
Step outside your work mindset. Pick up something fun, imaginative, or inspiring—just for the pleasure of it.
4. Take an online class
Stretch your creativity. Photography, painting, creative writing—anything that sparks curiosity.
5. Sharpen your sword
Invest in your leadership growth. Read a leadership book, join a discussion group, or connect with a coach who can challenge and equip you.
It’s no accident that four out of the five suggestions above aren’t about leadership directly. This time, I want to remind you that it’s perfectly OK—and necessary—to get better on the inside, too.