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Mindful leadership

Let's all take a moment, take a big, deep breath in, and let it out. Let's do that two more times: big deep breath, filling your lungs completely, then releasing. Shoulders up when you breathe in, shoulders relax as you breathe out. Gently close your eyes or simply soften your gaze toward the ground. Come into this moment right now, by scanning your body, starting with your toes, and breathing in and out of each area, noting any areas of tension. You may like to squeeze those muscles very tightly and then let them go. Work your way up to your legs, pelvis, back, shoulders, arms, neck, and head. Simply observing any sensations in your body without trying to make them do anything. Breathe fully and intentionally.

Slowly start to come back into the room. Wiggle fingers and toes, and you may slowly open your eyes if you wish. I will share 3 principles I've adopted while teaching classes like these every week for the public. These three principles work like a cycle diagram, feeding one another, continuously cycling.

1. I am empowered. I remained disciplined in regular meditation practice, have the confidence to ask for help, have crucial conversations I once avoided, and I'm finding my voice.

2. I am more confident by being self-aware. I have a larger self-care toolbox than before. I am close in touch with my physical symptoms of stress. I recognized impending burnout coming, and it's okay to pause the programming to reflect and make changes, and not to take this as a personal criticism. Allow it to change.

3. Building community. I asked for feedback from my library's internal programming team. I listen to my program attendees and ask what works? What doesn't? And I take all advice into consideration. I am reaching out to local practitioners to expand our programming and ease my burden. I am empowering others in their self-care journeys.

Being honest with myself, and recognizing the need to make healthier decisions, change some unhealthy coping behaviors, network with others, continue on the mindful meditation journey, sharing, teaching and learning in a sustainable way.

I thank you for your kind attention. May you be guided by peace.

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