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Est Read Time: 3:30

I know this week’s theme is supposed to be Tax Day—audits, numbers, productivity—but I can’t think of anything less joyful than taxes (maybe tariffs). So here’s my better reason to reflect: my birthday is next week.

Instead of crunching numbers, I’ve been looking at something a little deeper: how my performance changed when I invested in myself.

If you’re new to the C-Suite Workout—full disclosure—this edition begins with a personal reflection from the founder’s seat, then we’ll flip right back to you.

This past year, I stopped waiting for permission.

I owned my ability as a founder, a resource, and a voice.

I let go of beliefs and relationships that no longer aligned—no more “shoulds.”

I protected my peace, prioritized my energy, and practiced what I preach.

And instead of resistance, I was met with something unexpected:

As a founder: Our business doubled last year. Dilagence made a real impact in organizations and the lives of professionals we’re reaching. 

As a resource: Behind the scenes, I got to do more of what I do best—soundboarding, collaborating, and connecting people to help them reach their next level.

As a voice: I was invited to share my perspective in the media, on stage, and at global forums. The feedback? “Where have you been?” and “Why weren’t you doing this before?”

Turns out, so much opens up when we stop waiting—and start acting.

In a world full of uncertainty, I’ve been asking better questions:

• Am I spending my energy in ways that align with my purpose?

• Will I regret not going for this?

• Is this bold, or just busy?

That’s what I call a real audit.

And now, with Tax Day behind us and Q2 underway, I’ll pass the question to you:

How are you investing in yourself this quarter? Here’s how I thought about it this past year—and how you might too:

1. Invest in Your Energy

Your body is your most important asset. Energy fuels everything. Physical health isn’t about perfection—it’s the foundation for long-term success.

What I’ve Learned: When I prioritized my health and movement during the day, I didn’t just see physical changes—I saw business and leadership growth. 

Your Move:

• Build-In Workday Movement: At least 2x next week, add a movement break to keep your mind sharp. 

  • Walk to grab lunch, take the stairs, loop the office to say hi to a colleague (face time is a thing - use it to your advantage).

• Prioritize Sleep:  Choose one night to go to bed at least 30 minutes earlier. 

  • In that final half hour, do something finite (a crossword, a light checklist) to give your brain closure. Your brain and your team will appreciate it the next day.  

2. Prioritize What Actually Matters

Smart work isn’t about doing more—it’s about doing what counts. When you work with intention, you get better results—with less burnout.

What I’ve Learned: Focusing on fewer, higher-impact tasks had a direct effect on my productivity. I stopped chasing every shiny thing and started aligning my actions with my goals.

Your Move:

• Daily Check-In: Start each day asking, “What’s the one thing I can do today that moves me closer to my goal?” Do that first.

• Monthly Strategic Thinking Time: Don’t just let life happen. Protect 1 hour in the coming weeks to think about the life you want to lead. No emails. No meetings. Just you, your thoughts, and a little space to set 1–2 clear next steps.

3. Build Relationships That Fuel You

Who you surround yourself with shapes your success.

What I’ve Learned: Being intentional about the people and communities I invest in has elevated every part of life. Leadership isn’t just what you do—it’s who you’re do it with.

Your Move:

• Reach Out: Text or call one person who supports you or energizes you—just to reconnect or say thanks.

• Set Boundaries: Not everyone is for you or with you for every season. That’s okay. Reflect on one draining relationship and take one small step to reset.

One Simple Thing

The best birthday present you could give me? Take one of the actions above—for yourself.

Pick one audit activity from above and actually do it today.

Dilagence on the Move 

• Follow on Forbes: Thrilled to join ForbesWomen as a contributor, where I’ll be diving into conversations around leadership, lifestyle, and workplace well-being. Follow for the latest here and check out my recent piece on the Executive Woman’s Playbook for Hiring a Personal Trainer here.

• Event – Power & Pressure: Don’t miss my fireside chat with the amazing Katie McCormick Lelyveld—former Press Secretary to First Lady Michelle Obama and founder of MELD. We’ll be talking leadership, resilience, and well-being. Join us on May 15th. 

• Quick Read: Making fitness accessible is at my core - I chatted with Women’s Health about how to find a fitness routine without breaking the bank. Check it out here.

• Weekend Listen: I had the pleasure of joining award-winning CMO Elisa Padilla on her show for a conversation on my finance to fitness to founder journey. Watch the playback here. 

Dose of Dilan

How I’m Celebrating Life on 4/25:

Zeel massage after work (they come to you!) and omakase. 

What I’m Re-Watching: 

Scrubs. 20 year later, the show still has me cracking up. the Anyone else starting to miss 24 episode seasons btw?   

What I’m Falling Asleep To: 

Adult bedtime stories on history are a thing - I loved this one on Titanic.

Thanks for reading, I’m glad you’re on the team. For regular doses of Dilagence, follow on LinkedIn and if you know someone else who can benefit from this newsletter, invite them to subscribe here.