Caring for Others Requires Caring For Yourself

Introduction

As leaders, it's easy to get caught up in the job's demands and remember the importance of self-care. However, taking care of oneself is critical to being an effective leader. Let us explore some biblical insights from Jesus that can help us understand why self-care is so important in leadership.



Love the Lord, Your God, with All Your Heart

Jesus said:
'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'"
Matthew 37-39

The most important thing a leader can do is to be aligned with God. Jesus said that the first and greatest commandment is to love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. When we are in a relationship with God and aligned with his purposes, we can better manage our lives and be effective leaders.

Investing in Your Own Centeredness

Investing in your spiritual calling is essential to being a healthy and effective leader. Ask yourself, "Why am I here?" and "What am I here for?" When you are clear on your purpose and aligned with God's purposes, you will have a stable life and be better able to manage your finances, health, and relationships.

Love Your Neighbor as You Love Yourself

Jesus said that the second greatest commandment is to love your neighbor as you love yourself. This means that you must take care of yourself so that you can love others. God guides how to take care of yourself, your body, your mind, your soul, your family, and your children. By taking care of yourself, you will be better able to take care of others.

The Essence of Leadership

A production manager once said that at the end of the day, he wants his people to have a smile on their faces. This encapsulates the essence of leadership: getting purpose right and making sure your people are experiencing meaning, fulfillment, and joy. As a leader, you must provide care, nurturing, and mentorship to your people. But you can only do this if your own life is stable and healthy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, self-care is critical to being an effective leader. By aligning yourself with God's purposes, investing in your centeredness, and taking care of yourself, you will be better able to love your neighbor and be an effective leader. Remember that the most important thing you can do as a leader is to take care of yourself. (i.e. Whole Person Care Strategy)