I live in the suburbs of Chicago. It’s Winter 2013-14.

We’ve had a LOT of snow (more coming this weekend!). And it’s been really, really cold this winter.

Funny thing is, I actually LOVE winter. I prefer the cold over the heat because, well, you can wear more clothes if it’s cold. But you can’t really do much if it’s hot, humid and muggy (which isn’t too rare in Chicagoland in the summer).

But – I’m weary now. Tired of it. Had enough.

Ever get that way? With anything?

I’ve discovered three things that can help:

1. Change the scenery. For me, since my office is basically ground-level, all I see is snow. So I split my PC screen and put up a picture of a beach. No people, just sand. Take a break, move around, take a vacation. Stop doing what wears you out, even if momentarily.
2. Take notes. It’s amazing what good can come from writing out your frustrations – in this case, what makes you weary. For me, after about 3 minutes of taking notes, I’m onto action. I move away from what tires me out toward what energizes me.
3. Change the subject. Focusing on the same thing IS exhausting. Try pushing the pause button and move on to something else. Even if it’s temporary.

In order to lead others, we can’t get too worn down, too focused on the negative or our challenges. We need to rise above, and those we lead depend on it, too. Not only that, but we need to set the example.

Put a note on the side of your monitor, right now. Move. Take notes (and action). Do something else.

You’ll thank yourself later.

And, pretty soon, I’ll be whining about the heat and humidity . . .
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