Most of the leadership programs I’ve done have an underlying concept of wellbeing and the leader taking good care of themselves. In practice, I find it difficult to maintain good habits throughout the year especially when staff, Board, members, stakeholders and operational priorities take centre stage and the spotlight heats up.

By the end of 2016 my clothes had shrunk and my energy levels were low. I got active and regained some level of fitness. I now have increased energy, a better diet and enhanced quality time with family.

My holiday reading included The Millionaire Next Door. Based on comprehensive research and extensive interviews, this book contains sound advice to live below your means and build wealth accumulation beyond material possessions and fixed assets. A worthwhile read containing advice equally applicable to the Associations we lead.

By taking better care of myself in 2017 I am confident I’ll be a better decision maker, leader, husband and father. I’ll keep swimming and running. I’ll keep learning, and I’ll implement ideas like those in The Millionaire Next Door.

I hope you also had time to reflect, re-energise and refresh yourself over the summer holidays.

I’m looking forward to reconnecting with as many of the AuSAE community as possible at our events and membership engagement activities and wish you every success for the remainder of 2017.

Brendon Ward - Chief Executive Officer
Australasian Society of Association Executives