As leaders—whether in our careers, our communities, or our families—we often get so caught up in taking care of everything and everyone else that we forget to take care of ourselves. The meetings, deadlines, responsibilities, and expectations pile up, and even the things meant to bring us joy—a morning workout, a coffee break, or a moment of reflection—become just another box to check off.

We push forward, driven by results, responsibilities, and the next goal. But in the process, we risk losing something vital: Ourselves.

Imagine standing at the edge of a frozen lake in midwinter. The snow-covered ice stretches before you, pristine and inviting. It looks solid, but you know better. Some areas are thick and strong enough to support a full day of skating, while others—hidden beneath that same smooth surface—are weak and ready to crack under the slightest pressure. The only way to move safely across this lake is by understanding where the strong footing is and respecting the warning signs along the way.

Why Recalibration Matters

Life has a way of pulling us in every direction, leaving us disconnected from ourselves. Over time, pain, loss, failures, broken relationships, and heartache can overshadow what matters most. Poor habits creep in, good ones fall away, and we wake up one day feeling stuck, unsatisfied, and unfulfilled.