pic for summer goodbye

For many leaders, Labor Day marks the unofficial end to summer. It is when the days begin to get shorter and the temperatures commence their descent downward. There tends to be a little sadness in the air as the carefree (or at least less busy) routines of vacations and connecting with family and friends slowly dissipates. We know what lies ahead and some may not want to welcome the change as readily as others. It’s really not that dismal, just an adjustment and realignment that starts with a healthy send-off of the summer season.

Leaders can’t greet the new season without first acknowledging what has transpired during the past few months and how it has impacted their leadership.

Here are five ways to lead with a proper goodbye to summer:

 1. SAY GOODBYE TO LONGER DAYS OF LIGHT

When our days are filled with more bright light we can often get more accomplished in both our professional and personal lives. We were able to have more work/life balance because there was plenty of time at the end of the day to pursue our activities and interests. We were able to have later dinners and evening walks. We were even able to take early morning runs or meet friends for early breakfasts. Goodbye longer days of light.

[Tweet “Longer days of summer helped leaders gain work/life balance.”]

 2. SAY GOODBYE TO STEPPING BACK

Summer is often the time when many leaders choose to take vacation with their families and friends. We felt carefree to step away from our routines and do some exploring and relaxing. Some of us are even planning our next summer vacation now. We gave ourselves permission to let go of our highly structured work worlds in order to rejuvenate and breathe. Goodbye stepping back.

 3. SAY GOODBYE TO CATCHING UP ON ALL TYPES OF READING

For many leaders, having the opportunity to get lost in a book is a true benefit of the summer season. During the year some of us may read our industry journals or buy a business book, but in the summer we honored ourselves by reading all types of interesting books, as we satisfied our thirst to escape. Goodbye catching up on all types of reading.

 [Tweet “Bring the knowledge from the books you read this summer to your leadership.”]

4. SAY GOODBYE TO SUMMER FRIDAYS

There are many organizations that offer the fantastic perk of either being closed on Fridays or closing early. It is a great way to show people how much they are valued. Leaders who had this benefit got used to planning all sorts of outings and connections on those Fridays. Having a three-day weekend during the summer months was a true gift that we devoured. Goodbye to summer Fridays.

 5. SAY HELLO TO NEW LESSONS LEARNED

So what did you learn about yourself and others this summer? What new knowledge did you obtain that will help you grow your leadership as the new season rolls in?

Hello to new lessons learned.

How will you say goodbye to your summer? What new experiences or skills are you bringing along?

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