Acoustic Leadership: Unplug to Recharge Your Influence

Let’s be real for a moment: if you’re in a leadership role, chances are you’re feeling what I’m feeling – exhausted.

We’re always connected, constantly putting out administrative fires, and mentally running three steps ahead. It almost feels like a badge of honor, doesn’t it?

Photo Credit: Wes Hill

But here is the hard truth: that nonstop pace is a direct route to burnout. Living in “always-on” mode isn’t sustainable.  

Leadership gurus often champion topics about drive, vision, and relentless forward momentum. But rarely do they discuss the strength in knowing when to pause, when to step back. They overlook a critical truth: effective leadership isn’t about constant exertion; it’s about strategic restoration.

As leaders we only have so much energy and presence we can give our team, our family, and most importantly ourselves. We can all pretend to thrive on endless hustle, but the reality is, everyone needs a break. Unplugging and resetting isn’t a perk – it’s a fundamental requirement for stainable leadership.  

For those that know me best – know my appreciation for music and how I compare leadership acumen to a musician’s artistic expression. We all lead differently, influenced by multiple layers of internal and external influences. However, in the end we must lead ourselves first.

Take a moment, think about your favorite music group for a moment. They sound incredible on a big stage, with layers of instruments, vocals, lights, and energy. It’s exhilarating! But imagine listening to only that intensity, non-stop. Eventually, it would become overwhelming and over stimulating. You’d crave something different.

Now picture an acoustic version of that same band. Stripped back, just one voice and one guitar. The music changes, you hear something raw, honest, and revealing. The core melody is still there, the emotion is still present, but it’s delivered with a quiet intimacy. It allows you to feel the music through a different expression.

Leadership works the same way.

Let me ask – what happens when it’s just you? Unplugged?

The concept of “unplugging” is the chance to strip away the noise, the expectations, the “shoulds,” and reconnect with yourself. It’s the space to process, to reflect, and to recharge before diving back into the full force of leading.

Here’s something many overlook, even musicians don’t play all the time. They rest. They reflect. They sit in the silence to sharpen their sound. Leaders need to do the same.

On your days off, unplug “on purpose”. Rest is not weakness—it’s recovery. We often fall into the trap of believing that taking time for ourselves is selfish. It’s not. It’s strategic. A well-rested leader is a clearer thinker, a more empathic communicator, and a more effective problem-solver.

Here’s the paradox of leadership: real growth doesn’t happen during the hustle; growth happens in the stillness of unplugging.

Ask yourself:

• What was one moment this week where you felt truly in flow and energized – what specifically contributed to that feeling?

• What task or interaction this week felt draining and disconnected – what underlying need or fear might have been driving that disengagement?

• What is one assumption you challenged this week – what new perspective did that unlock?

• What is one small, concrete action I can take next week to address a challenge I faced this week – what support do I need to make that happen?

  
  

The more time dedicated to quiet reflection, the clearer your acoustic version becomes. You hear your own voice, unburdened by background noise. And the more time you spend listening, the more confident and calibrated you become when it truly matters.

You may ask – What does unplugging look like?

It’s different for everyone. That’s the beauty of it – it becomes your own contribution to your artistic expression. It can be:

• Digital Detox: Intentionally disconnecting from your devices. Passing the “conn” to your second in command and unplugging.

• Physical Activity: Go for a walk, go to the gym, do something that will release your stress and boost your energy.

• Go Fishing: Re-engage with activities that bring you joy and have nothing to do with work. Simply being present in nature can make a huge impact on your mental well-being.

• Quality Time with Family: Leave work at work. Provide your family with the necessary energy and presence they deserve.  Work emails or TEAMS chats can wait until Monday.

• Learn to say NO: Own your time and energy. Champion your calendar and protect what matters most. Say NO to commitments that don’t align with your priorities.

I’m curious: What would your acoustic version sound like?

What activities, what moments, what spaces allow you to strip away the complexity and reconnect with the core values of who you are?

What allows you to be present, to breathe, and to recharge?

Take some time this week to identify your “acoustic moments.” Be intentional – get it schedule on your calendar. Your team, your family, and YOU will be better for it.

Never forget – true leadership is about influence. If you don’t like what you hear, then adjust your “tone”. If you have lost your inspirational tone, it’s ok to pause and reflect. Knowing that when the amps are back on and it’s time for the big stage, a well-practiced acoustic version only makes the full band sound tighter, stronger, and more in sync.

This article was written by Wes Hill Fire Chief – Fort Riley Fire & Emergency Services

Photo Credits: AI and Wes Hill