Ready for a break? So are we!
The Institute has had another busy and successful year, but we know all too well the importance of rest and recuperation for managers and leaders. Wellbeing has been a huge focus for our Members who frequently join our Member Professional Support Network meetings this year. So, we asked some Members what they will be doing to recharge over the holiday period.
Sarah Hunter FIML (Principal of Aurora Transformations)
I have just done my last bit of business travel and will attend my last board meeting of the year this week, so for Christmas well-being I will be going offline to restore some order in my country garden with the dogs and the chickens. Likely some snakes too, but I try not to think about those.
Favourite Christmas carol or song: The North Wind (Christmas Day).
Favourite Christmas tradition: making Christmas fruitcake and my own fruit mince for Bakewell fruit mince pies.
Holiday reading: I like reading about business strategy over the break because I can really immerse myself in them at this time of year. Also currently reading and highly recommend Let the Land Speak by Jackie French.
Natasha Facci FIML (Director of The Alchemy Collective & BildGroup)
Like most of us, this year has been hectic from a personal and professional standpoint.
It has had its fair share of highs and lows and has provided me further insight into how I can be the best version of me. So, over the two-week break, I’m planning to rest, restore and renew through the lens of ease and joy. I plan to rest and unwind through, sleep ins, listening to music, and meditating in nature. Restoring through connecting with loved ones over nutritious food and walks in nature. And finally, I plan to refresh and renew through reading for fun, clearing away any life clutter and creating an intention and purpose for next year. Wishing you all a wonderful Christmas & New Year, full of joy, good health and happiness.
What is your favourite Christmas carol/song? White Christmas sung by Dean Martin.
What is your favourite Christmas tradition? My mother makes her famous home-made pasta Forno. It’s a dish she makes over a couple of days to allow the flavours to settle. It’s delicious.
Do you have a book recommendation for some holiday reading? All the light we cannot see, by Anthony Doerr.
Marianne Di Giallonardo CMgr MIML (Director of People and Places at Maroondah City Council)
I’ll be taking two weeks break to Mansfield. For me the perfect break is no people, no schedules, no phones/tech and no decisions; a complete break to breath in the fresh air, see the stars at night and enjoy ones loved ones.
Favourite Christmas carol or song: White Christmas.
Favourite Christmas tradition: St Nicholas celebrations on 6 December. I give a small pack of goodies to all Directorate employees, org Managers and senior colleagues, families in the court where I live and my extended family.
Holiday reading: I’m working my way through the I Love Lucy CD Box Set.
Philip Crenigan FIML (Principal of Executive Turning Point Pty Ltd)
For me, Christmas has always been about music and appreciating the simple things. It is a very musical week with three performances of Carols in the House at Sydney Opera House on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus several rehearsals this week with orchestra. It’s also a time to check in with clients for the last time of the year, wish them well, thank them and have a complete break which we have planned for in January.
Favourite Christmas carol or song: Oh Holy Night but the final verse of Oh Come all ye faithful with descant sopranos is a close second.
Favourite Christmas tradition: Carols around the piano and that will include the twelve days of Christmas.
Holiday reading: Light over Liskeard by Louis de Bernieres… a wonderful futuristic novel that will make you reconsider what is really precious in our short and precarious lives.
I wish you all a relaxing and peaceful break in this holiday period and look forward to catching up again next year.
Marty Thomas FIML (NSW State Director for The CEO Institute)
For me, Christmas is about spending a lot of time with my family and reflecting on the fortunate life we have in Australia. It’s a time to remember family and friends, past and present and to celebrate the WHY of Christmas. This special time of the year strengthens our bonds, shows love, and spreads kindness to everyone. I can’t think of a better way to recharge my batteries for 2024.
Favourite Christmas tradition: Champagne breakfast with ham and cheese croissants.
Holiday reading: Dare to Lead by Brene Brown.
