Leadership is not stress-free, and self-care is important to guard against burnout and emotional exhaustion. NCLS findings point to six Personal Foundations important in sustaining leaders over the long-haul, particularly when pressures mount or things get difficult. Leaders are encouraged to continually develop all six Personal Foundations.
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Spiritual Foundations
At the deepest level our spiritual foundations help us to know our identity in God, understand our place in the world, give us meaning and provide a solid base and strength to keep going.
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Clarity of Purpose
A clear sense of purpose really matters, significant for our wellbeing, our life and leadership.
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Sense of Self
Effective and sustainable leadership requires self-knowledge. We need to know our strengths and motivations well. We need to operate out of a sense of self rather being overly dependent on affirmation from others or the authority of our position.
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Integrity
Living an authentic life with integrity is an important foundation for effective leadership. Leaders need to model the values they believe are important.
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Supportive Relationships
Strong supportive relationships, at work and in life, are critical to maintaining effective and sustainable leadership and personal well-being.
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Balance and Boundaries
Sustainable leadership requires us not to seek to be messiahs but to set careful boundaries between work and the rest of life. A balanced life allows us to grow and be realistic about what we can do.
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