In our fast-paced world, the concept of resilience often gets misconstrued as a relentless march of endurance and strength. We think of it as a way to produce more, a means to an end. If we’re resilient we can be more productive in society. However, in a recent episode of my podcast (be sure to listen to the entire conversation), Nancy Medoff illuminated a different aspect of resilience – one that emphasizes the vital role of recovery. This conversation was an eye-opener, challenging the conventional narratives around resilience and productivity for anyone who feels guilty stopping, resting, or taking a minute. You know that I believe rest is resistance, and as Nancy shares, Resilience IS recovery.
Resilience Is Recovery, Not Just Grit
Nancy shared insights from a Harvard Business Review study, suggesting that resilience is less about unyielding fortitude and more about the ability to recover. This concept resonates deeply, especially in our modern work culture where ‘being busy’ is often glorified. Recovery is not just a pause; it’s an active part of sustaining our mental and physical well-being. It’s about creating a harmony between intense periods of work and equally crucial periods of rest.
🔑 Key Takeaways:
- The Crucial Role of Rest: Just like we can’t continuously exercise a muscle without risking injury, our brains need downtime. This downtime isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for maintaining mental agility and health.
- Rethinking Work’s Dominance: We often trap ourselves in the belief that our worth is directly tied to our productivity. It’s crucial to challenge this narrative and recognize that there’s more to life than work outputs.
- Embracing the Thriving Mindset: Thriving transcends mere survival. It’s about finding a balance that allows us to excel in our careers while enjoying and nurturing our personal lives.
“For me, it’s so I can live longer… The recovery for me is about being my best self physically and mentally.”
Nancy Medoff
This powerful statement underscores the long-term benefits of recovery – it’s about investing in our future selves.
Mastering the Art of Boundaries
One of the things that attracted me to Nancy in the first place is her incredible boundary setting skills. My god, this woman knows her shit. Her strategic approach to managing her schedule is a lesson in boundary setting. She exemplifies how deliberately structuring our time can prevent burnout. By dedicating specific days to focused work and others to relaxation or administrative tasks, we can create a rhythm that supports sustained productivity without sacrificing our well-being.
Her Three Strategies for a Balanced Life
- Mindset Mondays: Utilize Mondays for strategic planning, setting a positive tone for the week.
- Fridays Off: Keep Fridays meeting-free to wind down productively and smoothly transition into the weekend.
- Selective Yes: It’s empowering to say no to requests that don’t align with your goals or drain your energy.
The Thrive List: Crafting Your Personal Recipe for Well-Being
Nancy’s concept of a ‘Thrive List’ is a beautiful tool for personal reflection. It encourages us to identify and prioritize activities that replenish us. Whether it’s a morning walk, a good book, or a moment of meditation, understanding and honoring what helps us recharge is key to thriving.
Remember to check out the YouTube video for more enriching insights. This discussion with Nancy Medoff is a reminder that resilience is not about how long we can keep pushing forward. It’s about how we smartly manage our energy through recovery and self-care, setting boundaries, and ultimately, thriving in every aspect of our lives.
ABOUT NANCY
Nancy Medoff; equity evangelist, best-selling author, award winning podcast host and keynote speaker has literally “written the book” with her unique take on women and confidence. Unmute Yourself and Speak Up to Stand Out is a game changer and a call to action for women who are ready to get their seat at the table – then build a bigger table.
Isn’t it about time we speak up and stop building our own glass ceiling?
Recently named one of Thrive Global’s Power Women and featured in her hometown’s Boston Magazine; Nancy walks the talk and provides actionable steps for women to raise their game at every stage of their career.
When not traveling the globe, you’ll find Nancy enjoying the foodie scene in her home town of Boston or beachside on Outer Cape Cod, diving into the latest summer best seller.
CONNECT WITH NANCY
- Website
- Episode 60: Am I on Mute? Getting Your Voice Heard with Nancy Medoff
- Unmute Yourself Podcast