Let’s face it – every mom in the world has an enormous job!
And while they are among the most amazing of leaders, how often do we view moms as leaders?
Sure, there are times when mom leads a group. What would it look like if moms were regularly acknowledged and praised as leaders? And what would it look like if moms viewed themselves as leaders.
Moms are leaders, it’s time to start acting like it. Here are 3 tips to be a great leader mom…
1. Moms need a plan
Every leader needs a plan. And Michael encourages leaders to start with the SIMPLE Personal Plan. The SIMPLE Personal Plan helps leaders determine how their work – at home or the office – should fit into their overall life.
Moms can experience dramatic improvements when they take the time to write out a simple personal plan. When prepared with a plan for the future, leader moms begin to see the work they’re doing in perspective to all the junk and chaos around them.
And implementing the plan allows them to know themselves so they can better lead themselves.
When leader moms develop a clear plan for life and work (including parenting), they find more margin, greater fulfillment, better relationships, and higher productivity.
2. Me time
But it’s not what you’re thinking! We’re not talking about pedicures or massages – although those are awesome!
Me time is time spent relaxing, reflecting, and recharging. It could be time spent reading, writing, or working out. And each of these can encourage and inspire you along the way.
Leaders cannot lead effectively when they’re running on empty. So time spent on a hobby, cooking, or even a walk outside refills the soul and brings new perspective.
[Tweet “Leaders cannot lead effectively when they’re running on empty.”]
3. Support
Every leader needs help. While spouses and family members can offer great support, feedback and support from other moms helps you see that you are not alone and that many moms experience similar challenges.
Experienced moms and grandmothers offer wisdom for your journey. Similarly, you have significant experience from which you can encourage younger moms.
This one can be tough because we struggle with vulnerability. Too often we want to show the world how good we’ve got it, but to really learn from someone who has been where you are, you need to be honest and open about life—even with all the ugly bits.
What would be possible if every mom realized her full leadership potential? How would your relationships improve if you had all the tools you needed to grow and lead at home? How much more fulfilled could you be?
[Tweet “What would be possible if every mom realized her full leadership potential?”]
Time passes quickly. Soon your children and grandchildren will be grown. When you’re prepared, you can make the most of the time together with them – leading the next generation to live to their fullest potential.
So today, tell one mom – You are an amazing leader!
I really love this article because my mom is so influential in my life and I think she is a great leader! Great article.
So, are you saying that fathers don’t have enormous jobs and that they don’t need plans, me times or support? I am not saying that what mom’s do is not important, but what you have shared, if both parents are on the same page, is indicative of what both should be experiencing not one above the other.
Denny, I completely agree! Dads are leaders, too… parents have a HUGE responsibility. Everyone needs a plan, in my experience as a woman though, moms tend to not think of themselves as leaders and don’t make a plan where dads are more inclined to do so. My audience is woman and I have a huge heart for wanting to help moms see their leadership potential:-) Michael Nichols was gracious enough to give me this spot on his blog to reach other woman—my hope is to encourage moms!
Fair enough 🙂 Thanks for replying.