Habit 7: Sharpen the Saw, from the Leader in Me program, emphasizes continuous self-improvement and renewal through physical, mental, social/emotional, and spiritual dimensions. It's about taking care of yourself to maintain energy and capacity for effectiveness in other areas of life.
Elaboration:
Renewal is key:
Habit 7 is about revitalizing yourself, much like sharpening a dull saw, to be able to continue effectively.
Four dimensions of self-care:
It involves taking care of your body (exercise, nutrition, sleep), your mind (learning, intellectual stimulation), your heart (relationships, emotions), and your spirit (meaning, purpose).
Continuous improvement:
Habit 7 encourages a mindset of ongoing learning and development, both within oneself and in one's relationships with others.
Balance:
Finding a balance in these four areas of self-care is crucial to maintain vitality and prevent burnout.
Impact on other habits:
By taking care of ourselves, we have more energy and focus to practice the other six habits of the Leader in Me.
Examples:
Body: Exercising, eating nutritious foods, and getting enough sleep.
Mind: Engaging in learning, reading, and intellectual pursuits.
Heart: Spending time with family and friends, practicing empathy and compassion.
Spirit: Engaging in activities that align with your values and beliefs.
Importance:
Without regular renewal, it's easy to experience burnout and exhaustion, hindering your ability to be effective in other areas of life.