Here are 20 principles that I think define a balanced leader:

1. You balance your needs with those of others in your organization.

2. You balance your needs with those of others in your family.

3. You manage your energy.

4. You manage your time.

5. You adhere to your values.

6. You keep an optimistic outlook while remaining realistic.

7. You cultivate consistency while adapting to change.

8. You practice self-reflection.

9. You manage your emotional equanimity.

10. You recognize and manage your blind spots.

11. You leverage your strengths while managing your weaknesses.

12. You try to see yourself as others see you.

13. You alternate periods of hard work with periods of sustained rest.

14. You play as hard as you work.

15. You take chances and make mistakes.

16. You acknowledge your mistakes.

17. You learn from your mistakes.

18. You maintain a good sense of humor.

19. You cultivate a cadre of friends and relatives to keep you on the right path.

20. You never do any of this alone.

In unabalanced times, it’s more important than ever to practice these principles. The mark of a  good leader is the ability to lead in all kinds of circumstances. In the toughest of times, leaders need to stand on a rock-solid set of core values.

Remember – life almost always is unbalanced, out of kilter, listing or leaning in one direction or another. No matter what, you’ll need the skills and strength to help you steady the ship.

Thanks for reading, and remember to visit robsleaders.com!