We have all heard the term “Do as I Do, not as I Say”. What does that really mean?   In general, it means to lead by example.  Set the bar high for others and even higher for yourself.  Until recently, I have lived by that statement.  However, as years go by, I have noticed that leading by example isn’t enough.

Is it really best to show your loyalty to your management and team by working 12 hour days? Or to lead by example of having the true work/life balance everyone talks about yet rarely strives for and almost never achieves?              In this imperfect world, employers expect perfection.  So how can we help guide, teach, lead and empower ourselves and employees to be the best they can be while keeping in mind the balance formula varies for each person.

Honing in on one’s strengths and weaknesses is an art really. I found that it is a true skill developed over time by working with and interacting with a large variety of people in many different facets of life and in many different industries.  Some people are more intuitive than others and can immediately see what one’s strengths and weaknesses are just by having a 30 second conversation.  For others, it could take weeks or months.  Take the time needed to find not only your own balance but help others on your team find theirs.

Once you have learned what each employee’s strengths and weekends are, it is important for the employee to share what they believe they have to offer and improve on. In order to truly grow, being self-aware is imperative and finding a true balance brings a happier team and a more productive one.