WHY TAKING CARE OF YOURSELF IS TAKING CARE OF OTHERS.
I’m lucky. My clients are some of the most genuine, caring people I know. People I would invite to my dinner table. They trust and care about their teams, often putting employees’ needs ahead of their own. It comes from a good place. That instinct can backfire.
Think about what happens on an airplane: Before takeoff, we are reminded to put on our own oxygen mask before helping others. It’s practical advice. If you can’t breathe, you can’t help others.
Similar examples include; if we:
- Neglect our physical or mental health, we can’t parent or lead effectively.
- Mismanage money, we can’t support someone in need or invest in our own future.
The same principle applies to running a business. Instead of putting on a mask, we can create policies. With clear policies, practices, and up-to-date compliance, we can best protect our employees, families, and suppliers.
Here’s an example: A business owner tries to help an employee through a tough time, maybe bending a rule or offering something informal. That kindness can set precedent. The intention is kind, and precedent is now set. That kindness can lead to a lawyer’s letter if a future employee is not treated in the same manner. It’s stressful, expensive, and unfair, especially if the intention was to help.
Another common example: An employer fires someone and allows them to keep working until the end of their notice period. I have seen great employees do strange things when they are no longer bound by loyalty or become desperate for replacement income. If you give notice, always escort the employee to the door right away. Day of notice = last day of work, even if you trust the person and are paying severance.
Reality is; creating & following policies is how you protect your people and your business. Good policies create a strong foundation. With that foundation, you have the energy, resources, consistency and stability to be there for others when it matters.
Next time you feel the urge to help someone on your team, take a breath and remember the flight attendant’s advice:
Put your mask on first.
