According to a recent study by Accenture, the rate of change has risen sharply since 2019—183% over the past four years and 33% in the past year alone. KPMG-based research cites that 96% of organizations are undergoing some phase of transformation at any given time.
For many, the pace feels overwhelming and unsustainable. In fact, 78% of people worldwide believe that “the world is changing too quickly for me.”
This velocity is leaving leaders feeling anxious, on edge, and feeling like we’re constantly trying to keep up. The result? A loss of control, rising stress, and struggle to remain optimistic.
Maybe that resonates with how you’re feeling right now. But here’s the good news: there are practical, proven ways to calm the chaos—and reclaim your peace and balance, one small habit at a time.
Start by thinking back to a time when you felt energized, healthy, and in control. What daily practices supported that season of your life? For many leaders we coach, it comes down to four things: movement, sleep, relaxation, and clear boundaries.
This isn’t about creating another to-do list. It’s about intentionally reintegrating just one or two of these supportive habits—ones that feel good and work for you. Here are some simple approaches to consider:
- Start small and schedule it like a meeting.
- Choose something you enjoy—walking, yoga, biking, or even dancing in your living room. Pair it with music, a podcast, or a phone call with a friend.
- Aim for 15–20 minutes three times a week.
- Set a consistent bedtime
- Do a brain dump of tomorrow’s to-dos to clear your mind.
- Power down screens 30 minutes before sleep.
- Reset your nervous system in 5 minutes by starting or ending your day with a few intentional breaths
- Consider apps like Calm or Headspace for a short guided meditation.
- Pick a consistent trigger moment—like right before your first meeting—to pause and reset.
- Create an intentional transition, especially if you work from home by closing your laptop and shutting the door to your home office.
- Use a short end-of-day ritual to review wins and prep for tomorrow.
- Communicate your availability clearly so others can honor your time too.
You don’t need a total reset—just one small, intentional shift. Start where it feels easiest, and watch the ripple effect unfold. You have more control than you think—and small habits, done consistently, will help you lead through change with greater clarity, calm, and confidence.