Hey Reader,

I know you’re juggling a lot right now. I also know the work you do is critical. But moving the mission forward when things aren’t okay is tough.

You’re not alone if you’re wondering how to keep going. Here are a few ways to get started with keeping yourself grounded and continuing to show up for the work even when things get heavy.

1: Regularly check in with yourself and tune in to what you need. I call my version of this the H.A.U.L.T. self-check-in. The check-in works by taking a moment to pause and respond honestly to yourself using these prompts:

• Hungry—Am I hungry?
• Agitated—Am I agitated? Am I feeling triggered or stressed?
• Uncomfortable—Am I physically uncomfortable? Do I need to move or adjust my body?
• Lonely—Am I lonely? Do I need to reach out and connect with someone for a quick chat?
• Tired—Am I tired? Did I get a good night’s sleep? Do I need a power nap?

Your honest responses will help you identify what you might need at the moment. For example, if you feel cranky because you’re hungry, that could be an indication to take a break for lunch.
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These check-ins support you in regulating emotions and prioritizing your well-being, especially during stressful or triggering periods.

2: Create a grounding start-and-stop routine. Many of us end up checking emails, responding to text messages, doom scrolling, and going through our mental checklists before even rolling out of bed. You can break this pattern by identifying a start-and-stop ritual to bookend your days and carve out time to refill your cup.
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The start ritual is something you do for yourself before jumping full steam ahead into your day.
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If your time is limited or you’re overwhelmed with where to start, consider beginning with just five minutes for yourself at the beginning and end of each day. If you have a non-linear workday, you could also consider having multiple start and stop routines throughout the day.

3: Focus on what’s in your sphere of control. It's important to understand the distinction between the things you can control, where you can influence others, and what your concerns are that you don’t have ultimate control over.

Focusing your finite time, energy, and attention on the things you can control helps you make an impact where it matters most. Recognizing what’s outside your control can lower stress and anxiety and allow for more effective decisions within your area of influence.

4: Understand what’s truly urgent vs. important. Lower your stress level by identifying what’s truly urgent and important right now. Accept that priorities may constantly shift—and that’s okay. What may be a priority today may be different tomorrow.

To help with this, I like to use my version of what some refer to as the Eisenhower matrix. This is a framework that helps us visually see how different tasks compare relative to their level of urgency and importance. I think of urgent things as needing to happen right this moment or VERY soon. I think of important things as needing to happen at some point, but not necessarily right this second.

As you try out these tips, I invite you to remember that caring for yourself and your team while doing mission-driven work is a continuous practice. There’s no right way to do it. And what works for you or what you need may change depending on the season of life and work.

Keep doing the good work,

Meico

P.S. If you need support for yourself or your team to navigate this season, I’m here for you. Just reply to this message or book an appointment here: mindfultechie.com/virtualtea.

About Meico

I’m Meico Marquette Whitlock.

Imagine a world where leaders and teams don’t just grind through the day but thrive in their work, without sacrificing their well-being. That’s the world I’m working to create.

I’m here to help you embody what it means to truly thrive and know your well-being is your greatest asset.

As a workplace well-being strategist, I’m on a mission to help purpose-driven leaders rewrite the narrative of success. I believe that impactful work doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health or happiness, and I’ve made it my life’s work to show you how.

I’m the founder and CEO of Mindful Techie, author of How to Thrive When Work Doesn’t Love You Back and The Intention Planner, and a certified trauma-informed mindfulness teacher.

I partner with mission-driven organizations to create cultures where belonging, balance, and purpose take center stage. In a world full of burnout and overwhelm, I help you navigate life, work, and technology in harmony.

During my previous career in the tech, nonprofit, and government sectors, I experienced more than my fair share of burnout and overwhelm in the name of making a difference. As a recovering workaholic, I use what I’ve learned to help changemakers like you make an impact without self-sacrifice.

I partner with you to create strategies and deliver programs that help your team scale impact while sustaining the right balance between life, work, and technology in today’s changing world.

I have worked with organizations such as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Cigna, and Greenpeace, and have been a featured speaker on ABC News, Fox 5, and Radio One. I'm also a former triathlete, love salsa dancing, and make the world’s best vegan chili! :-)

Are you ready to prioritize your well-being and elevate your well-doing? Let’s get started!

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