Navigating the New Year

Winter can be a challenging time of year. As early as November, the days grow shorter and darkness seems to outweigh the light. Here in Wisconsin, the cold settles in, clouds hide the sun, and snow arrives in unpredictable fashion (remind me why I live here?). 

At the same time, the workplace intensifies. Year-end budgets are due, auditors arrive, contracts need renewal, and deadlines loom. Staffing can also become a challenge as employees rush to use up remaining time off. 

This combination makes winter an easy time for leaders to feel overwhelmed—and even experience Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). According to the National Institutes of Health, SAD can lead to low energy, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and a loss of interest in activities—all of which can impact business. 

As the new year begins, leaders must mentally move forward from what may have been a chaotic finish. You play a critical role in creating and sustaining healthy workplaces, but it requires caring for yourself first. So how can you do this effectively? 

After researching expert guidance, self-care generally falls into four key areas. 

The first is practicing mindfulness. During high-stress periods, experts recommend focusing on the present moment. Observing your thoughts and feelings and practicing mindful breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety. 

The second recommendation is setting boundaries—something many leaders struggle with. Delegating tasks, removing unnecessary commitments, and learning to say “no” can prevent overcommitment. While relinquishing control may feel uncomfortable, it can be essential to avoid burnout. 

The third self-care strategy is taking breaks and truly unplugging. Stepping away to disconnect and recharge benefits not only you, but it also sends a powerful message to your team about the importance of work-life balance. 

Finally, experts emphasize prioritizing physical well-being. This can be as simple as drinking more water or getting more sleep, or as intensive as starting a new fitness routine. A healthy body supports a healthy mind, which directly impacts your ability to lead effectively. 

Winter may be unavoidable, but burnout doesn’t have to be. By prioritizing self-care, leaders can navigate the season with greater resilience and continue showing up as their best selves for their teams.