In the world of leadership, decision-making isn't just about strategy and outcomes. It's also about integrity and well-being. This is where the Ecology Check, a fundamental concept in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), steps in as your compass. It's a powerful tool that helps you navigate decisions with intention, ensuring your choices serve not only the bigger picture but also yourself and those around you.

Understanding the Ecology Check: A Three-Pronged Approach

The Ecology Check examines the potential consequences and benefits of any decision or action across three key areas:

1. Good for Me (Self): This level focuses on your individual well-being. It's about assessing whether a decision aligns with your values, beliefs, and personal goals. Will it support your physical, mental, and emotional health? Will it leave you feeling energised and fulfilled or drained and resentful?

2. Good for Others (Team): Here, we zoom out to consider the impact on your immediate circle – your team, colleagues, and even your family and friends. Does this decision demonstrate respect for their needs and perspectives? Will it foster collaboration and empower those around you?

3. Good for the Bigger Picture (Organisation): The final level expands to the broader context of your organisation and the wider community. Does this decision align with the mission and vision of your company? Will it contribute to a positive outcome for all stakeholders? What kind of legacy will it create?

The Ecology Check for Female Leaders: A Path to Self-Assuredness (from the Inside Out)

For women in leadership, the Ecology Check is particularly transformative. We've been conditioned to believe that putting ourselves last is a virtue. But this outdated script often leads to burnout, frustration, and resentment, ultimately hindering our effectiveness.

The Ecology Check flips the script. By consciously evaluating decisions through the lens of "Self," you're reclaiming your place at the table. It's a systematic reminder that your needs matter, that your intuition and emotions are valuable assets, and that self-care isn't selfish - it's essential.

Breaking Free from the Self-Sacrificing Trap

Prioritising "Self" first doesn't mean neglecting your team or organisation. Instead, it empowers you to make choices that benefit everyone involved. By honouring your own well-being, you create a ripple effect of positive change. You lead with more clarity, confidence, and compassion.

Remember, not every decision will feel perfectly aligned from the start, but the Ecology Check prompts you to pause, reflect, and find ways to re-frame and create alignment. It's about taking responsibility for your choices and actively seeking solutions that nurture your energy and well-being. This prevents frustration and resentment from building up and ensures you're leading from a place of strength and authenticity.

Communicating with Impact: Starting from the Outside In

While prioritising your needs is crucial, it's equally important to communicate your decisions effectively, especially when they involve changes that might impact others.

The Outside-In Approach

When addressing a broader audience, such as your team or senior leadership, start by framing your decision in terms of the "Organisation" first. Clearly articulate how the decision benefits the company's goals, mission, or overall success.

Next, explain the positive impact on the "Team". Highlight how the decision will improve productivity, collaboration, morale, or any other relevant team dynamics.

Finally, if appropriate, briefly touch on how the decision benefits you personally (the "Self" aspect). This could be in terms of your ability to perform at your best, contribute more effectively, or maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

Example:

Let's say you've decided to block off two hours every afternoon for focused work, meaning you won't be available for impromptu meetings during that time.

• Organisation First: "To ensure we meet our ambitious project deadlines and deliver high-quality work, I'm implementing a dedicated focus time each afternoon."

• Team Impact: "This will allow me to be more present and productive during collaborative meetings and provide more thoughtful feedback on your work."

• Personal Benefit (optional): "This focused time will also help me maintain my energy and creativity, ensuring I can consistently bring my best to the team."

By leading with the organisational benefits, you demonstrate your commitment to the company's success and gain buy-in from stakeholders. You then connect it to the team's well-being and outcomes, showing your dedication to their growth and development. Lastly, mentioning the personal benefits (when appropriate) adds a layer of transparency and authenticity to your communication.

This "Outside-In" approach not only fosters understanding and support but also reinforces your value as a strategic and self-aware leader.

The Science of Self-Care

Studies have shown that leaders who practice self-care experience improved focus, decision-making skills, and overall job performance. By prioritising your well-being, you're not just taking care of yourself, you're investing in the success of your entire team. A 2012 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Vocational Behaviour found a strong correlation between self-care behaviours and improved work engagement, job satisfaction, and overall well-being among leaders.

In essence, prioritising self-care isn't just about you - it creates a ripple effect that benefits your entire team and organisation.

5 Coaching Questions to Guide Your Journey

1. In what areas of your leadership do you tend to put yourself last?

2. What are the consequences of neglecting your own needs?

3. How can the Ecology Check help you make more balanced and empowered decisions?

4. What specific actions can you take this week to prioritise your well-being?

5. How will incorporating the Ecology Check into your leadership style benefit not only you but also your team and organisation?

3 Action Steps to Take This Week

1. Identify your non-negotiables: What activities or practices are essential for your well-being? Schedule them into your calendar and treat them as important appointments.

2. Practice saying "no": Set clear boundaries and learn to decline requests that don't align with your priorities or values.

3. Use the Ecology Check for decision-making: Before making any significant decision, evaluate its impact on yourself, your team, and the greater good.

Call to Action

Embrace the Ecology Check as your compass for sustainable and effective leadership. By prioritising your own needs and values, you'll unlock a new level of confidence, clarity, and impact. Remember, as I always say, your well-being is non-negotiable. It's the foundation of your leadership success. You deserve to thrive, not just survive.