UPDATE: As October 2023 marks Mental Health Month, regional leaders across Australia are urged to prioritize their well-being to maintain effectiveness in their roles. The call to action highlights the critical need for leaders to adopt small, meaningful habits that sustain their energy and focus in the demanding landscape of rural leadership.
Just announced: Leadership in regional and rural Australia is increasingly challenging, characterized by early mornings, long hours, and the constant juggle between personal and professional commitments. In a recent conference, leaders emphasized that to stay resilient, it’s essential to find harmony rather than striving for an unattainable balance.
According to a Dubbo agribusiness manager, his “one small thing” is a daily 15-minute personal check-in with coffee in hand. He explained, “If I start with clarity, I end with energy.” This revelation underscores the importance of setting intentions at the beginning of each day.
A principal from a regional primary school shared her ritual of playing music loudly every Friday afternoon, dedicating 20 minutes for reflection. “It helps me finish with gratitude instead of exhaustion,” she stated, showcasing how small habits can significantly impact mental health.
Regional leaders are reminded that their professional and personal lives are deeply intertwined, often making the concept of “work-life balance” unrealistic. Instead, they are encouraged to foster harmony—an adaptable blend of responsibilities that acknowledges the dynamic nature of regional life.
The focus on small, consistent actions—such as morning routines, quiet walks, and monthly reflections—serves as a powerful reminder of how these practices can nurture leadership stamina. A dairy farmer revealed his daily practice of walking the paddocks at dawn, stating, “That’s my thinking time. It reminds me why I love this life.”
With mental health increasingly gaining attention, leaders are urged to recognize the importance of energy, enthusiasm, and focus. These elements are vital for sustaining leadership effectiveness. The experts emphasize that leadership is a marathon, and without renewing energy through intentional pauses, leaders risk burnout.
As regional leaders reflect on their small rituals, they are encouraged to ask themselves: What’s your one small thing? Whether it’s a quiet morning routine, regular catch-ups with friends, or time taken for self-reflection, these practices are crucial for maintaining personal harmony.
In a compelling takeaway, the message resonates: “Leadership isn’t found in big speeches or strategic plans; it’s in the quiet choices that keep your fire alive.” As leaders navigate their busy lives, prioritizing these small habits will not only enhance their well-being but will also lead to greater impact in their communities.
With October underway, the urgency is clear: regional leaders must cultivate their inner strength to thrive, ensuring they can continue to support the communities that depend on them. Now is the time to act and protect those small habits that fuel personal and professional growth.
