Bid managers are used to doing a dozen things at a time. It’s something we are brilliant at. Juggling multiple bids, plugging the gap of an absent team member, checking deliverables are on track and getting the approvals in place… Add to that making sure the kids are taken care of, being around to let the plumber in or making sure there is food in the fridge, and you can see we are pretty good at keeping multiple plates spinning.
But just because we CAN do it all the time, it doesn’t mean that we SHOULD. In fact, it’s important we give ourselves downtime to just do nothing. Step away from the spinning plates! And just be.
At home, if you’re not really in the room, your loved ones will pick up on that. Plus, if you’re making mental notes of the 34 things you need to do when you get back to the office, you’re not giving yourself the time to really replenish.
It’s tempting during holidays to have a sneaky peak at your inbox and clear a few jobs. But what if this Christmas you gave yourself the gift of really being present with the people that matter for you? Yes, there may be deadlines in the new year but have you ever actually missed one? I bet you haven’t – and you won’t make that happen by allowing yourself the time and space to really switch off and enjoy yourself.
In fact, one of the things you can do to ensure you do a good job in the new year is to recharge your batteries. Sleeping and watching a few crappy old films are part of that but don’t underestimate the importance of fun and connection when it comes to replenishing your energy. More importantly, be there for the people in your life who really matter. And include yourself in that please.
If you still need a work/life justification, breakthroughs often happen when you give yourself the space to just be. So if you are ruminating over a challenge at work, you may well find the answer presents itself when you just switch off.
All I want for you this Christmas is to give yourself the gift of time. Give yourself permission to relax, sleep and really be present with your loved ones and just chill. Take care of yourself this Christmas, so that you get to be your favourite version of yourself at work and at home as well.
Merry Christmas!
Clare Foley
Clare Foley is a Bid Manager with over 16 years’ experience in IT, Defence and other industries. Her interest in personal development grew from a desire to manage the demands of her role. She qualified as a Coach in 2020 and now provides coaching to help individuals achieve more with less stress. She also provides training to organisations who want to enhance team performance through a focus on wellbeing.
