Greetings, fellow leaders! As the summer sun brightens our days, many of us in the business world welcome the ensuing slowdown. Summer is synonymous with relaxation and rejuvenation, a well-deserved break from the ceaseless churn of corporate leadership. But what if I told you that this season also presents an ideal opportunity to not just wind down, but wind up?
The Art of Slowing Down
Let’s begin by acknowledging the vital importance of winding down. Intense work schedules and the relentless pursuit of organizational objectives can leave even the most resilient leaders feeling worn down. The slower pace of summer offers a much-needed respite, a chance to recharge our batteries and refuel our creativity.
A study published in the Journal of Management revealed that periods of rest contribute to improved productivity, mental wellbeing, and heightened levels of innovation. Whether it’s embarking on a long-planned vacation, enjoying family cookouts, or simply indulging in leisure reading by the pool, it’s not just okay but essential to disconnect and relax.
Harnessing the Power of Upskilling
While summer is undoubtedly a time for relaxation, it’s also a unique opportunity to invest in your professional growth. Upskilling – the process of learning new skills or training in areas you wish to improve – is increasingly becoming a non-negotiable in today’s rapidly evolving corporate landscape.
Let’s clarify – this isn’t about immersing yourself in complex financial analyses or corporate strategy formulations. It’s about seizing the chance to broaden your knowledge horizons, learn about new industry trends, and fortify your leadership toolkit. And the great news is that upskilling doesn’t have to be a daunting task. It can be both fun and fulfilling, a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
So how can you transform your summer slowdown into a season of growth and learning? Here are some strategies:
Embrace the Digital Learning Revolution
We’re fortunate to live in an era where world-class learning is just a click away. Online learning platforms such as Coursera, LinkedIn Learning, and Udemy offer a cornucopia of courses specifically designed for busy executives. Whether you’re interested in mastering the Agile methodology, understanding the intricacies of organizational design, or exploring the realm of emotional intelligence, there’s a course out there for you. And the best part? You can learn at your pace, in your space.
Utilize the Power of Your Network
Summer is a great time to lean into your professional network. Reconnect with old colleagues, meet new ones, and engage in insightful discussions. A casual coffee chat or a virtual meet-up can often yield valuable insights and fresh perspectives. Industry webinars and online conferences also offer a wealth of information and networking opportunities.
Dive into the World of Books
An executive’s best friend is often a good book. And not just those that focus on leadership or business strategy. Consider exploring works that delve into behavioral psychology, societal trends, or technological advancements. Such books can provide a fresh perspective and stimulate innovative thinking.
Cultivate Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is increasingly recognized as a key leadership trait. Summer presents an excellent opportunity to hone this skill. You could practice mindfulness, a proven technique to enhance emotional intelligence, using apps like Headspace or Calm. This will not only make you a better leader but also improve your overall wellbeing.
Review and Refine Your Goals
A strategic pause during the summer months allows you to step back and reassess your career trajectory. Review your long-term goals, identify the skills you need to get there, and plan your learning journey accordingly. This targeted approach to upskilling ensures that every new skill acquired, or knowledge gained brings you one step closer to your career aspirations.
Amplify Your Summer Experience with the Summer Series Leadership Forum
While these strategies will serve you well on your summer upskilling journey, I’d like to invite you to an exciting addition to your learning repertoire – the Summer Series Leadership Forum. This is a monthly lunch-and-learn call designed to spark a collaborative dialogue on contemporary leadership topics.
The forum is not just an opportunity to learn from top thought leaders and industry veterans, but also a platform to share your experiences, insights, and questions. With a different leadership theme each month, you’ll keep your skills sharp and stay attuned to the dynamic world of leadership.
Signing up is easy – simply click here to join the Summer Series Leadership Forum. It’s a chance to turn the usually slower summer months into a period of exponential growth and enrichment.
So, as we embrace the glorious summer months, let’s challenge ourselves to not just unwind, but also upskill. The art of great leadership lies not just in navigating the high tides of business demands but also in utilizing the quieter periods for growth and reflection. This summer, let’s make a pact to relax, recharge, and reskill, setting the stage for a more successful, fulfilling leadership journey.
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