The Manila Times’ Blanca Mercado on why self-care matters in leadership and life

For The Manila Times President and Chief Operating Officer Blanca Mercado, taking care of oneself is not simply a matter of relaxation. It is an essential part of leading effectively, nurturing relationships and staying present for the people who matter most. As a media executive, mother and grandmother, Mercado understands the demands of balancing professional responsibilities with family life. Through her 15-year partnership with BlueWater Day Spa, she has learned to make wellness a regular part of her routine, finding time to recharge while sharing the experience with her daughter. “Wellness is very important to me because leadership requires energy, focus and a clear mind. I’ve learned that taking time to recharge allows me to come back to work with better perspective and make better decisions. As a mother and grandmother, taking care of my health also means being present for the people I love,” Mercado shared. Leading with confidence and compassion Mercado believes effective leadership is not measured solely on the ability to make difficult decisions but also on creating an environment where colleagues feel heard, supported and encouraged to grow. “Being a ‘girl boss’ is about being confident in your abilities while remaining compassionate and grounded,” she said. “Most importantly, I believe in...