Finally we have reached election day: the finishing line is within sight with the results being revealed overnight. But how do Election Superstars pace themselves so they can maintain energy and focus throughout the campaigning period then have a game face on for the results?
We have already had one casualty with Diane Abbott now off sick: I hope it isn’t too serious and I hope she has a quick recovery. Only yesterday Corbyn’s voice was very croaky and he admitted that it was getting croaky in the morning, and it would become stronger during the day. That doesn’t seem too healthy – but then there is only one more day to go, so he can then rest; unless he wins the election.
There are many situations in business where we have to maintain energy and focus during a period of time; it might be that a conference over a couple of days, a pitching process, a project with a deadline, troubleshooting etc. Certainly at Christmas, with my music business and family life I have to be careful not to be too exhausted! However, it is unlikely that this would be over such a long period of time. But it does require stamina, planning, will power and potentially a reward at the end of it! Here are my top tips for sustaining your energy, health, sanity during sustained periods of busy living.
Pace yourself: Plan your schedule to include some rest time. If you are campaigning, plan routes and campaign locations carefully so you aren’t travelling to Aberdeen then Plymouth and back to Norwich, but a more suitable route! If you can speak to clients remotely on occasions this will save travel time.
Delegate: You don’t have to do EVERYTHING yourself; are there other people who can do some work for you; could they answer the phone? Could they respond to some questions?
Sleep: Honestly, having a good sleep is essential. There is no value in being macho by having 4 hours of sleep. You can’t sustain this as you lose not only energy but the ability to concentrate. Ensure you have planned proper sleeps.
Diet: When you are tired it can be tempting to have sweet snacks, but this isn’t the best food healthwise and will only give you a short energy boost. Fruit, seeds and nuts are always good for snacks and I personally eat plenty of bananas for an immediate, healthy boost. Ensure there are times to eat balanced food; not just sandwiches, but food with salad or vegetables. If necessary order this into the office.
Make things easy: If there is important work – or an election, there is nothing clever in complicating things. Use diagrams, concise instructions etc.
Communication: create an environment where there is free and open communication. You don’t want someone to be afraid to discuss a problem or admit to an error. Create a supportive environment where brainstorming and giving/making suggestions is all part of the culture. You will need this for long projects.
Have support: Whether it is advisors to bounce ideas off, a supportive spouse or a great team, this is vital. There are going to be days when things don’t go well, there is a gaff or you feel as though you are pushing against a brick wall!
Have some down time: whether you listen to some music whilst you are travelling from one place to another, downloading something from Netflix or reading a good book. A massage or hot bath. These are excellent ways to relax.
Good luck with your own ‘election’ or project. You too can be election Superstars.
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