Lead Well by Resting Well

My husband had a work trip in Tennessee that stretched into the weekend. With our anniversary just behind us, we decided I’d fly down and turn it into a quick getaway.

I almost didn’t go. I thought I needed to keep working, keep producing. But I went—and I’m so glad I did.

Yes, I checked in on the Collective and took notes on momentum and clarity. But each day, I closed the laptop early.

Not out of pressure—out of presence.

Because instead of content and structure, I chose:

• Waterfall hikes (with butterflies!)

• A glass bridge and a roller coaster

• 20,000 steps with my ride-or-die (hi, Chris 😃)

• Laughter, fresh air, and meals shared with new friends

This guy beside me is my biggest supporter. And when someone stands beside your mission through the highs and lows, you don’t push them to the margins. You honor that.

I haven’t always done that well. But as they say, when you know better, you do better.

As leaders, it's easy to buy into the belief that we always need to be on—available, producing, solving, supporting.  But great leadership isn’t about constant motion. It’s about showing up with clarity, presence, and intention.

And that starts with rest.

That’s what we’re modeling and encouraging inside the Collective: honoring the people and pauses that refuel your purpose—because that’s where your impact truly begins.

Last week didn’t go as planned. It went better. And I’m better for it.

Great leadership isn't about constant motion.  It's about showing up with clarity, presence, and intention.  And that starts with rest.

Rest isn't a reward - it's a requirement.

This Memorial Day weekend, take the opportunity to actually unplug.  Give yourself a break - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally.  Leadership that lasts comes from a place of grounded energy, not burnout.

Here are a few small but meaningful ways to rest with purpose:

• Go phone-free for a morning - Let your brain breathe without pings and scrolls.
• Do something unproductive - Read for fun, doodle, take a nap.  No end goal, just enjoyment.
• Spend time in nature - Even a 10-minute walk outside can reset your nervous system.
• Say no to one thing - Protect your space.  Rest starts with boundaries.

Remember: Your energy is contagious.  When you lead from a place of rest and resilience, your team feels it - and they're more likely to mirror it.  So this weekend, choose rest not just for you, but everyone you lead.

Having Fun This Holiday Weekend While Feeling Good

Holiday weekends are made for good food, time with people we love, and a break from routine.  But if you've ever ended a long weekend feeling sluggish or out of sync you're not alone.  The good news?  You don't have to choose between having fun and feeling good.  A few small habits can help you enjoy the moment and bounce back with energy.

Here are three easy ways to stay balanced while you celebrate:

1.) Hydrate!

Especially if you're out in the sun or enjoying a cocktail (or two), staying hydrated is key.  Water keeps your digestion moving, your energy steady, and your body cool.  A good rule of thumb?  One glass of water between each alcoholic or caffeinated drink.  Bonus: add lemon, cucumber, or mint to make it feel festive.

2.) Add a Veggie to Every Plate

Whether it's a big BBQ spread or potluck table, look for the greens.  Adding a simple salad, grilled veggies, or raw crudite balances out heavier dishes and helps you feel more satisfied (not stuffed).  No need to overhaul your plate - just make space for color and crunch.

3.) Walk It Off

Instead of crashing on the couch after a big meal, take a short stroll.  Movement helps with digestion, supports your metabolism, and clears your mind.  Plus, walking with friends or family can lead to some of the best conversations of the day.

It's not about perfection - it's about intention.

You can fully enjoy the pie, the burgers, the downtime - and still feel aligned with your wellness goals.  Just a little mindfullness makes it easier to return to your week feeling refreshed, not depleted.

If you're firing up the grill this weekend, don't forget the corn!  This lightened version of elote skips the mayo and adds a bright, smoky kick thanks to chili-lime butter.  It's light, easy to make, and guaranteed to disappear fast!

Grilled Corn with Chili-Lime Butter

Ingredients

4 ears of fresh corn, husks removed

4 tbsp. unsalted butter, softened

Zest of 1 lime

1 tsp. chili powder

1/2 tsp. sea salt

Optional: chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime

Instructions

1.) Preheat the grill to medium-hight heat.

2.) Grill the corn, turning occassionally, until lightly charred on all sides - about 8-10 minutes.

3.) Meanwhile, mix the butter: In a small bowl, combine the butter, lime zest, chili powder, and sea salt.  Mix until smooth.

4.) Remove corn from the grill and immediately slather with the chili-lime butter while hot.

5.) Top it off with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime.