Courageous Leaders Blog

Reading the Sunday papers I loved reading Wendy Harmer's column called "The Future Looks Stupid" where she explores the new syndrome identified by researchers in Scotland - "Busy Lifestyle Syndrome". This syndrome is caused by our busy lifestyles where we are bombarded with information overload. I don't think we needed researchers in Scotland to confirm this for us.

However they went on to tell us something far more interesting - that our attention spans and concentration levels are going down and memory loss is getting common and affecting younger people. And as Wendy comments - we are more efficient but what use is that to us if we can't remember what we're being efficient at exactly?

So what do we take from this research - we need to create greater self discipline around cutting out the noise; finding ways to be present; creating energy recovery rituals and having the courage to stay true to be the kind of person and leader you really want to be.

It can feel like it is easier said than done - and is only possible if you are prepared to be conscious of all your choices! Turn off your mobile phone so it cannot distract you from being present with the people you are physically present with; stop looking at your emails so you are not bombarded with yet more and more information.

Would love to hear some of your stories - let's start a conversation.