Here we are… the last in my series inspired by the Queen’s Gambit and today, I’d like to talk about the strategy of self-care. From loneliness to addiction and mental illness, The Queen’s Gambit touches on many tough themes. As high-achieving members of the self-made nation, we too can feel lonely (for more on Lonely Leadership listen to the interview with success coach Heather Petherick). As leaders, we need to incorporate a wider perspective into our strategy, one that includes self-care.

 

I’m far from being a clinician, but I might have a connection with you, having lived with mental illness in and around me. Family members who have struggled with alcohol and addiction, bipolar and cancer. My brother’s suicide. The Queen’s Gambit and many other stories are laden with examples of using alcohol and drugs to numb yourself.

 

If you’re in a position where things are tough, I want you to know you’re not alone.

 

This is when you should reach out to a trusted friend or family member. This is when you should present yourself at a walk-in clinic. Call the crisis line, reach out to your GP.

 

The Queen’s Gambit stirred up a lot of emotion for me. It was entertaining. It was also gut-wrenching. To see her suffering, her mother’s suffering. To watch Beth Harmon be isolated and then feel overwhelmed with her genius and lose sight of her passion.

 

Mental illness is not a choice, but you can choose to take care of your mental health:

⭐ Find your purpose, your North Star and focus on this as your strategy.

⭐ Practice self-care tactics, like exercise, drinking water, mindfulness, or meditation

⭐ Keep grounded with some type of prayer or reflection

 

To hear the rest of my insights and reflections in this somber end to the theme of the Queen’s Gambit, take some time to listen to the podcast.

 

And take care of yourself. Be self-reliant, but remember to practice self-care.

 

Ta Ta for now.

 

Please reach out if you would like to connect. Whether you’re an entrepreneur looking to exit, or at the helm of a thriving business or startup or a lonely leader who needs some advice, I would love to talk to you! You can drop me a line here.