Every day as I’m out dodging squirrels and questionable dog-related smells on my hike with Izzy (the Wonder Dog), I have a chat with my dad, Chuck.
Now, dad is one of my absolute favorite people: he’s rock in my life and we’ve had more adventures than a pirate with a map to buried treasure. I always look forward to our daily connection.
Our conversations always start the same way: he jokes at his inability to master the intricacies of his phone. It’s a predictable but always entertaining discussion.
Today, though, he was chuckling at my schedule. “From one airplane to another, client to client, running kids around, publishing content, writing books… man, you’re busier than a squirrel in the nuthouse!” he joked. He always has a joke.
“Well,” he said, “If you feel like you’re just treading water, pull the plug and let it drain.”
Wait what? It took a minute to sink in.
“If you’re treading water, drain the tub!” he explained.
“You’re the one who filled it, right? You’re the one who can empty it.”
It hit like a ton of bricks
“It’s like going to 36,000 feet,” he said, referencing a recent message I had written.
“Getting a different view is key. Then, recognize that you are the one who filled the tub, and you are the one who can drain it if you feel like you’re just treading water.”
Whoa…thanks dad.
So, how do you drain the tub? Here are three handy tips to help you drain your personal “tub” and get you and your business moving forward instead of just keeping your head above water (and maybe even enjoying the view from the deck chair!):
· Stategy: The “Identify the Leaks (and Plug Them)”: Take a good, hard look at your overflowing “tub.” What activities, commitments, or even people are contributing to the overflowing feeling? Are there tasks you can delegate, say “no” to, or simply let go of? It’s like finding the holes in your metaphorical boat – you gotta patch them up to stop the sinking!
· Approach: The “Prioritize Like a Pro”: Just like my dad said, you’re in control of the water level. Take a moment to prioritize what truly matters. What are the most impactful tasks? Focus your energy there. And hey, once you’ve tackled a big one, reward yourself! Maybe a little mental break or even a celebratory rubber duckie for your desk (no judgment here!).
· Method: “Get a Different Perspective (and Take a Real Break)”: Sometimes, when you’re in the thick of it, it’s hard to see the forest for the trees (or the drain for the water). Step away from your usual routine and regain that 36,000 feet view. Take a real break – a walk, a coffee with a friend, anything that gives your brain a chance to reset. A fresh perspective can often reveal the easiest way to pull that plug and get back to dry land.
Let’s stop treading and start thriving!
And, here’s to the wisdom of dad’s everywhere. Thanks dad.
Warm regards,
Dr. Kevin
Founder
Mays Leadership, The Business Ascent, & The Leadership Academy.
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