Self Care As a Leadership Strategy For Women
- Staff Writer - She Speaks CEO
- Apr 13
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 14
Lead with Self-Care: Your Leadership Effectiveness is Tied to Your Energy Level!
As women in leadership, we often find ourselves juggling roles, responsibilities, and expectations that demand our full attention—sometimes at the expense of our own well-being. But here’s the truth: leadership isn’t just about productivity, power moves, or pushing through. At its core, leadership is energy management. And your energy? It’s your most valuable resource.
The Myth of Hustle Culture
For far too long, the narrative has been: the more you do, the more you’re worth. But that mindset is burning leaders out at alarming rates. (Trust me, I know this first-hand).
70% of women executives report experiencing burnout, according to a 2022 McKinsey & Company report.
The World Health Organization has now classified burnout as an occupational phenomenon, citing chronic workplace stress as a key contributor.
We’re told to “lean in,” but no one talks enough about when to lean back.
Rest Is a Leadership Strategy
Self-care isn’t a luxury, sis, it’s a leadership tactic. (READ THAT AGAIN!) Studies show that leaders who prioritize rest and self-renewal are more likely to:
Make better decisions
Foster stronger team culture
Lead with empathy and clarity
Navigate stress and change with resilience
One powerful example? Arianna Huffington, founder of Thrive Global, collapsed from exhaustion at the height of her career. That moment became a catalyst for her company’s mission: redefining success beyond burnout and building a workplace culture that values well-being.
She isn’t alone. More female executives are publicly embracing rest, therapy, meditation, and boundaries—not as weakness, but as wisdom.
3 Practical Ways to Lead with Self-Care
If you’re wondering how to start showing up for yourself while leading others, here are a few approachable ways to build self-care into your leadership lifestyle:
1. Schedule a “CEO Recharge Hour” each week
Block off one hour in your calendar for rest, thinking, or creativity—no meetings, no tasks. Just you, your thoughts, and the space to breathe.
2. Protect your energy with stronger boundaries
Learn to say “no” without guilt. Delegate what doesn’t require you. Every “yes” should serve your mission, not distract from it.
3. Normalize rest in your organization
Lead by example. Encourage your team to take mental health days or log off after hours. A healthy work culture starts with leadership.
Real-World Inspiration: How Women CEOs Prioritize Wellness
Whitney Wolfe Herd, CEO of Bumble, prioritizes weekly therapy and yoga, openly discussing the role of mental wellness in her success.
Jessica Alba, founder of The Honest Company, incorporates mindfulness and digital detox time with her team.
Rachel Hollis, founder of The Hollis Company, incorporates daily journaling and gratitude practices into her routine, championing emotional wellness as a tool for effective leadership and growth.
Tyra Banks, founder of SMiZE & Dream and former CEO of Tyra Beauty, embraces self-care through intentional rest and therapy. She often speaks about the importance of taking mental health breaks to maintain her creative vision and leadership stamina.
Tyra Banks
These women don’t just lead companies—they lead cultures.
Your Mission Needs You at 100%
You can’t pour from an empty cup. And you certainly can’t lead a movement, a company, or a community without energy, vision, and presence. By prioritizing self-care, you ensure that your leadership isn’t just sustainable—it’s unstoppable.
Ready to lead from a place of power, purpose, and wellness?
Join the She Speaks CEO community and gain access to tools, mentorship, and a network of powerhouse women who believe in rising without burning out. Keep an eye out for our Women in Leadership retreat, a chance to recharge and revitalize - your vision, your body, and your mind! Visit our website to
Comments