by Laura Corrigan

Depending on the number of employees you oversee, it may be difficult to have face-to-face conversations with each employee on a regular basis, but do your best.

Strong leadership is a balancing act. The best managers are the ones who not only fully understand the tasks they are giving, but empower their employees to complete them with little interference.

The approach a boss takes to everyday tasks trickles down to the employees she oversees. In order for a leader to inspire positive results, she must first have an upbeat view of herself, her worth, and her role as the boss.

Here is a look at important ways to be a better boss and inspire employee success:

1. Get some sleep.

There are only so many hours in the day to complete projects, right? Many women, especially those in leadership roles, push themselves way past the point of exhaustion in an effort to cross off everything on their to-do list before calling it a day. The truth is that productivity decreases the more the body is pushed in a tired state. Sure, there will be times when a task simply cannot wait until tomorrow, but know when to say when. A fresh start in the morning will result in faster, more accurate results.

2. Exercise regularly.

We all know that a regular fitness routine contributes to better health and longevity. Add in the benefits of heightened endorphins, greater inspiration and increased confidence, and the benefits of finding the time for regular exercise is a clear necessity for women leaders. Workouts give women the chance to break away from the grind and concentrate on themselves for a while. The rejuvenated feeling that accompanies a workout spills over into every other aspect of life, including career efficiency. Plus, a boss that is naturally happy will encourage a culture of positivity in the workplace.

3. Plan one-on-one time. 

Depending on the number of employees you oversee, it may be difficult to have face-to-face conversations with each employee on a regular basis, but do your best. Don’t let an annual performance review be the only face-time you provide to the people entrusted under your leadership. Keep up on the lives of your employees and strive to know more about them than their productivity numbers. Forge acceptable personal relationships that bolster the professional goals of your area of supervision and the company as a whole. Employees that have an emotional connection to their job will perform at a higher level than those who view it as a way to make money and pass time.

4. Be flexible.

Every industry and business is different when it comes to the amount of acceptable scheduling flexibility. A boss that understands the importance of workplace flexibility is one who shows progressive thought and values her employees as individuals with lives outside of the office. If there is a way to offer remote working options for new parents, or employees facing health concerns, extend the offer. From a strictly financial standpoint, retaining current employees is a smarter fiscal move than hiring new people. From an ethical standpoint, showing employees that you support their personal choices through flexible work options demonstrates confidence in their abilities and your own leadership.

5. Outline expectations.

Some managers make the mistake of thinking that a hands-off approach to employee expectations makes them more likeable. The reality is that employees need and respect direction from their leaders. Clear expectations give employees working parameters and a feeling of satisfaction when a job is well done. Never be afraid to offer constructive criticism, but counterbalance that approach by acknowledging successes. Outline specific benchmarks and look for ways to help your employees meet all goals and expectations.

No matter what your management style, you will only be effective if you first take care of yourself and stay in-tune with the needs of your employees. True leadership takes consistent maintenance to reach its full potential. Inspire success all around you by communicating clearly, thinking progressively and making your own health a priority.

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Op-ed pieces and contributions are the opinions of the writers only and do not represent the opinions of Y!/YNaija.