by Tammy Cameron
We are fierce. The motivation and drive of women determined to succeed is powerful. Whether you are boldly claiming your place in the corporate world, juggling the responsibilities of a bustling family at home, forging steadily ahead in philanthropic efforts, or navigating the entrepreneurial world, we all have something in common; we pour our hearts and energy into all that we do. This is the force of women, magnetic, surging, and constantly moving, carving paths where there once were none and transforming hardship into victory. It comes with a cost.
Even the most ferocious lioness gets tired. Yes, there are moments of fearless energy and action, marking and leading one’s territory, strategically planning one’s next step, anticipating external threats and challenges to come, and we valiantly rise to the occasion. In the quiet moments that follow, we seek refuge, retreat, and solitude, a time when no one is calling our name, when a proposal is not due, the phone does not ring, a bill does not need to be paid, and a meal does not need to be prepared. This is our moment to rest, rejuvenate, and balance our power with tranquility, something that nature has already mastered, and that we, collectively, are learning.
We are learning how to accept our state of calm. We crave it, yet we find ourselves restless at the same time. It is time for a new approach.
Let go of worry. What is the worst that could happen? If the current worry were not an issue, what would the next worry be? We can become caught in this cycle of thought after thought. Surrender; you are safe. Build your safe environment. Know that the world will not wait, but that all that happens during your period of rest will be okay. Allow the chaos around you to unfold as you embrace your inner calm.
Balance responsibility with play. Have fun. Become your own reminder and allow yourself to engage in activities you enjoy. Learn to push the pause button on your responsible self for short periods of time. It is okay to delegate; trust that your decision to do so is correct.
Practice patience with yourself. You do not have to be perfect at every stage along the way. If you slip up, do not worry. You will get back on track.
The next step is to thrive. The powerful lioness, following rest and play, returns to resume her fearless leadership. She has been missed, but not forgotten. Her need for retreat is not a weakness; it is a path to self-awareness, a calculated time in which she is re-discovering herself, basking in her motivation, and aligning with how she chooses to show up in the world. Secretly, we do not want anyone to know that we are not perfect at carefree relaxation, that we struggle to create the solitude we crave. It is hard for us to release worry and to permit ourselves time to play, and fearing judgement, we do not want to share this with the world. However, if we are to lead truly and authentically, we will face our biggest challenge. We will practice solitude until we are comfortable and skilled experts. We will teach others our process. We will share our stories with the next generation of leaders. This is the gem we offer.
Observe the storm in the sky. Let the rain come. Identify when the moment is right to stand still despite surrounding chaos. From torrential waters, come new paths. Self-awareness shows us which new path is ours.
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